Obituary

Thorald Edward Davidson, Jr. (Ted), 83, passed away on Thursday, May 26, 2011 at Scottish Rite Park Health Care Center in Des Moines. Ted, was born July 23, 1927 in Mason City, Iowa to Dr. Thorald Edward Davidson, Sr. and Gertrude (Kreimeier). He thoroughly enjoyed time with family and was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He attended Drake University and graduated in 1950. He enlisted in the Navy and was called to serve near the end of World War II.

Ted started his career as Secretary of the Sac City, Iowa Chamber of Commerce. He was instrumental in the economic development for the state of Iowa back in the 1950's when he was appointed by Governor Beardsley to serve as Executive Director of the Iowa Development Commission. He went on to spend 15 years in Cedar Falls, Iowa as Treasurer of the Viking Pump Co. Throughout his career he was an advocate for Iowa's youth and schools serving on the Cedar Falls School Board for nine years and as President of the Iowa Association of School Boards (IASB) prior to becoming the Executive Director for IASB in 1973 – a position he held for 23 years until his retirement in 1996.

One of his favorite pastimes was working in his beautiful gardens and he served as President of the Friends of the Des Moines Botanical Center, Member of the Board of Directors for the Iowa Arboretum, and President of the Men's Garden Club. He was also a very active member of Central Presbyterian Church and Rotary International.

Ted is survived by Ann (Townsend) Davidson, his wife of 58 years; his children, Jayne Ann (David) Thompson, Todd (Carolyn) Davidson, Kirby (Amy) Davidson; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; sister, Lois (Robert) Sweaney, and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and his grandson, Ryan Davidson.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Friends of the Des Moines Botanical Center, Men's Garden Club of Des Moines, Iowa Arboretum, Russ O'Harra Hosta Society or the American Cancer Society in memory of Ted's grandson, Ryan Davidson.

A funeral service will be held at Central Presbyterian Church, 3829 Grand Ave. in Des Moines, starting at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 31. Visiting time with the family and a light lunch will be served immediately following.

Online condolences may be sent by accessing Ted Davidson's obituary at www.ilesfuneralhomes.com.

ARRANGEMENTS BY ILES FUNERAL HOMES ~ DUNN'S CHAPEL.

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