Daniel R. Davis

Daniel Davis, 49, passed away Tuesday, August 25, 2009 surrounded by his family after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was born May 29th, 1960 in Middletown, CT. He was the son of the late Raymond Davis and Maureen (Donnelly) Davis. He was a graduate of E.O. Smith High School. Following high school he joined the Eagleville Volunteer Fire Department where he attained the rank of Assistant Chief. He also served as a career captain and training officer for the Town of Mansfield Fire Department. Dan set high standards for himself as well as others as he continued in his pursuit to make himself the best firefighter he could be. He was a member of the Eastern Connecticut State Fireman's Training School Board of Directors, and was a certified fire instructor. He also was a member of the IAFF and the Connecticut Firefighters Association. He graduated with 42nd class of the Connecticut State Fire Marshalls. Danny was known for his natural talent for woodworking, and he created his own version of "this old house". He collected fire memorabilia and power tools, and his motto was "He who dies with the most tools wins". He was very proud of his daughter's Irish step dancing and was the perfect "Feis Dad". Danny leaves behind his wife, soul mate and best friend of 18 years, Brenda (Baribeault) Davis as well as his beloved daughters, Jessica and Kelsey Davis who brought him much joy and laughter. He also leaves behind a sister and his "brothers" Ernie and Chip, as well as a large extended family and many dear friends. His family will receive relatives and friends on Thursday Aug. 27th between 5:00 and 8:00pm at Potter Funeral Home 456 Jackson St. (Rte. 195) Willimantic. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday Aug. 28th at 10:00am at St. Joseph Church, 99 Jackson St. Willimantic, with assembly directly at the church. Parking is available in the church parking lot at the rear of the church. Interment will then follow in Pink Cemetery, Mansfield. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to a trust fund for his daughters Jessica and Kelsey Davis at the Savings Institute, 95 Storrs Road, Mansfield, CT 06250 or The Town of Mansfield Fire Department, 4 South Eagleville Rd, Storrs CT 06268. For online memorial guestbook, please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com .