Canton man was popular mentor
for young hockey players

BY ED WRIGHT
Updated Jan. 8, 2010, 8 a.m.

  You'd have a hard time finding a local high school or advanced-travel hockey team that hasn't been positively affected by Tim Davison, a personable, knowledgeable coach who shared his passion for the sport with hundreds of young icers.

  Davison passed away tragically at the age of 49 on Jan. 1 as the result of a swimming accident in Hawaii, where he was vacationing with his family.

  "Tim was one of the most avid hockey fans I knew," said Lee McCarty, who coached with Davison during the 2005-06 season. "He was just a great guy to be around. He cared deeply about what he was doing and he was a great communicator.

  "Here he was, a global executive with DHL, yet he could step onto the ice with these kids and it was just like he was their father. He was a gregarious, fun-loving guy who enjoyed life.

  "He was always smiling and very upbeat," remembered Maria Pitts, who crossed paths with Davison often when she was a manager for the Arctic Pond Penguins. "He was always positive with the kids; never demeaning. If you asked his players if they'd want to play for Tim again, they'd all tell you 'yes'."

  Several of Davison's teams advanced to Joe Louis Arena for state championship tournaments.

  Davison is survived by his wife, Lori, and children Patrick, Erin and Bryan; parents Harold and Rhona Davison; and siblings Gary (Susan), Lynne (Ron) Brahler, Steve (Caroline) and Laura (Gary) Brison.

  Patrick and Bryan were both outstanding hockey players at Canton High School.

  Davison earned a degree from Kent State University and was a Regional Vice President of DHL International at the time of his death.

  The funeral service will be held Saturday at 10:30 a.m. from the chapel of the L.J. Griffin Funeral Home, 42600 Ford Rd. in Canton (just west of Sheldon). The family will receive visitors Friday from 1-9 p.m.

  You can share a "Memorial Tribute" with the family at griffinfuneralhome.com.


   Ed Wright can be reached at (734) 453-1980 or info@plymouthcantonsports.com.