John "Jack" V. Davis

Middleport– John “Jack” V. Davis, age 89 passed away unexpectedly at his home. He was born July 28, 1936 in Medina to the late Charles and Helen (Tylec) Davis.

A truly singular individual, Jack has been described as a "Middleport icon", "a legend", "a kind soul, and a "fascinating man." Jack was widely known by so many and loved by all.

For decades, Jack wandered the highways and byways of Niagara-Orleans counties all year round, walking regularly from his home in Middleport to Medina, Lockport, Albion and beyond. Each summer, he would walk the length of the canal from Lockport to Albion (sometimes beyond), inspecting the bridges and noting any changes. In winter, he was known by his bright red coat, four-buckle rubber boots, and trademark ear-flap cap.

He spent hours in the local libraries, Curvin's, Fischer's Newsroom and anywhere where magazines, books or newspapers might be found, pouring over the stories and photos.

While on his travels, he was frequently seen by friendly motorists who would postpone their direction and destinations to kindly give him a lift. Many such rides were often filled with conversations wherein Jack would recount stories and facts in amazing detail on his favorite topics–family and local histories, World War II and the bridges along the Erie Canal.

Jack was a very social person, attending birthdays, family gatherings, funerals, etc, often bringing a card or a simple token gift. He very much enjoyed a picnic or a good meal, especially where there were cherry pop, hot dogs and sweets. It was well-known among all who knew him that he favored chocolate-covered cherries (he loved all things red!) and would receive dozens of boxes from well-wishers at Christmastime.

He was also perhaps the greatest fan of the local, iconic band Jonesie, traveling to wherever they were playing to see the show, hanging out with the band and enjoying the music.

Jack wasn't a doctor, a lawyer, or an engineer. He didn't author any great books, was never elected to office, didn't have wealth or status or a grand home. But he lived a rich and simple life and judging by the immense outpouring of love and affection at the news of his passing, Jack was a far, far richer man than anyone could ever hope to be.

Jack was predeceased by his father, John V. Davis (1956) and his mother Helen (Tylec) Davis (1999). He is survived by his cousins Martin (Ann) Busch of Middleport, Michael Busch of Ithaca, Christopher (Cindy) Busch of Medina, Mark (Gail) Tylec) of Florida, Vincent (Cynthia) Tylec of Middleport, and Patricia Kathleen (Thomas) White of Florida.

There are no prior calling hours. Jack’s memorial service will be held at the Middleport United Methodist Church, 9 Park Ave. Middleport, NY 14105 on Friday, May 22nd at 11:00am. Interment of ashes will be held in Sacred Heart Cemetery, N. Gravel Rd., Medina, NY.

Memorial contributions in Jack's name may be made to the Royalton Hartland Community Library 9 Vernon St. Middleport, NY 14105.

Jack’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home, 38 State St. Middleport, NY.

To share a special memory of Jack, visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.