May 10, 2017, Leland F. Davidson, also known as Grandpa Dear, joined his wifeof 53 years, Irene, in Heaven. He was born in Grand Prairie, (nka Westwold), British Columbia, Canada, March 1, 1916, to James and Anna Davidson, both United States citizens, who had moved to Canada to homestead.
They moved back to Washington when he was four years old. Leland lived all his life in Lewis County. He graduated from Chehalis High School and worked in the CC Camps during the depression, helping his family financially.
Leland later joined the United States Navy and consulted with attorneys regarding his U.S. Citizenship, he believed that had been taken care of. When applying for a enhanced driver’s license, he found out he did not have the proper documentation, all he had was a Canadian birth certificate and several notarized statements. After much determination, at Leland was finally sworn in as a proud U.S. Citizen at 96.
He served in the Navy during World War II aboard the USS Saratoga (CV-3) and USS Chain. Returning home, he worked as an auto machanic, managed the Mossyrock Bowling Alley, worked in the U.S. Post Office and the Centralia Parks Department. Leland and his wife lived in the Borst Home for 13 years, loving every minute of it.
Leland was an avid bowler, loved fishing, traveling and spending many summers in Vanderhoof, B.C., Canada. He also loved polka music and old westerns, which he watched daily on his favorite channel RFD-TV.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Irene; stepson, Robert Lumbert; parents; and many brothers and sisters.
Leland is survived by his stepdaughter, Rose Schoolcraft (Earl) of Centralia; stepson, Maury Lumbert of Cinebar, Wash.; eight grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; 15 great-great-grandchildren; and multiple nieces and nephews.
A memorial in his honor will be held at 11 a.m., June 24, 2017, beginning with a military service at Washington Park (Centralia Timberland Library). A luncheon will immediately follow directly across the street at the Centralia Square Grand Ballroom and Hotel (old Elks Building).
