Melvin L. Davis

Davis, Melvin L., 79, died Thursday, January 16, 2014. Melvin Louis Davis was born on March 9, 1934 at Wesley Hospital in Wichita, KS, to parents Bernard and Maxine Davis. He was the first of three sons. Mel grew up in his childhood home on East 3rd Street and attended Wichita East High School. After graduating, Mel enrolled at Wichita State University where he studied business while also being active in ROTC. All along he worked at the family business, B. Davis Clothing Co. in downtown Wichita. After graduating with a bachelors degree in business, Mel joined the USAF and attained the rank of Captain before returning home to care for his ill father and to run the family business. Shortly thereafter, Mel went to work for Willard Garvey and was a top producer in his division for many years. Mel met his future wife, Barbara Lee Lewis in 1959 and they married in 1964. Together they raised three sons. In 1974, Mel designed and constructed Southlake Village Apartments and continued as sole proprietor until his retirement in 2002. Mel was honored and inducted as a charter member of the Wichita Apartment Industry “Hall of Fame” in 2010. Over the years Mel served on numerous public committees including The Substandard Housing Committee. He was active in his faith and served as President of The Temple Brotherhood and President of Congregation Emanu-El. Mel often led services and even presided over a bris when called upon. Mel also served on the Wichita School Board for six years. His business expertise and passion for education were assets to the community. Before being diagnosed with Parkinsons disease and later, dementia, Mel enjoyed traveling along with his wife, mother, and children. He visited Israel twice, Ireland, most of Europe, Australia, Hawaii, Colorado, and California, to name a few. After retirement, he and Barbara divided their time between their homes in Wichita and Las Vegas. An avid golfer, Mel played often and was rewarded with a Hole-in-One in July 2003. In addition, Mel loved tennis and snow skiing, both of which he excelled at. Mel is preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Maxine Davis. He is survived by his wife Barbara, sons Mark (Belinda) of Austin, TX, Brent (Leslie) and Jeremy (Jennifer) of Wichita, KS; grandchildren, Rachel, Sarah, Alex, Leah, and Lily; great-grandchildren, Charlie and Caragh; brothers, Hershel and Laurence; and numerous beloved friends and family. Services to be held at Downing Lahey East Mortuary, Sunday, January 19, 2014, at 11:00 A.M. Burial will follow the service at Highland Cemetery, 1001 N. Hillside. In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established at Congregation Emanu-El, 7011 E. Central, Wichita, KS 67206.