Emeritus Professor of History Rodney O. Davis died in the early morning of Monday, Oct. 27 as his family gathered with him at the Apple Valley Health Care Center, Apple Valley, Minn.
A professor at Gustavus from 1953-1990, Dr. Davis received his B.A. from Trinity College and his M.A. and Ph.D. from Duke University. Professor Davis was recognized for his accomplishments in the field of history with grants from the Hill Family Foundation and DHEW. Davis was interested in teaching the disadvantaged, and he developed a text and method for teaching history. He also co-authored Power, Public Opinion, and Diplomacy (1959) and wrote numerous articles. He taught history, political science, and peace education courses. He was also a member of Phi Beta Kappa, American History Association, the Medieval Academy, and AAUP.
Dr. Davis is survived by three daughters, Barbara, Corrine, and Bonnie, and two sons, Richard and Michael, and their families. His wife, Jacqueline, preceded him in death. Visitation for Dr. Davis will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, October 30 at First Memorial Chapel, 4343 Nicollet Avenue South, Minneapolis. His funeral will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, October 31 at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 12650 Johnny Cake Road, Apple Valley, Minn.
The family requests that memorials be sent to the Rodney O. and Jackie S. Davis scholarship fund at Gustavus Adolphus College or to the memorial fund of your choice.
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