NAPLES, Fla. (March 26, 2014) — William W. Davis, former vice president of private brands for B.F. Goodrich Tire Co., died on March 17 in Naples, Fla., at age 89.
Mr. Davis was born in Evanston, Ill., and graduated from New Trier High School. After one year at Cornell University, in 1943, he volunteered and served in the Army for 3 1/2 years during World War II in the South Pacific. He was awarded an appointment to West Point but at the end of the war chose to return to college, according to an obituary provided by his family.
Mr. Davis graduated from the University of Michigan and started his business career at Montgomery Ward in 1948. In 1951 he was recalled into the service and served another 1 ½ years in the Korean War, resuming his business career with Montgomery Ward in Chicago after his tour of duty ended.
In 1961, Mr. Davis joined B.F. Goodrich in Akron, retiring as vice president of private brands. The family did not say what year he retired.
He was a member of Psi Upsilon Fraternity, a founding member of St. Alphonso Catholic Church in Prospect Heights, Ill., and a longtime member of St. Hilary Church, Akron, St. William Church, Naples, Fla., Fairlawn (Ohio) Country Club and The Club at Pelican Bay.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years Sara Lou (Sue) Davis; his children Beth (David Hughes), William (Vickie) and James; and grandchildren William Todd, Nicole and Andrew Davis.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggested donations may be made to Habitat for Humanity or the charity of the giver's choice.