Mark M. Davis

Mark M. Davis, age 71, of Watertown, SD, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, September 13, 2025.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Crawford-Osthus Funeral Chapel in Watertown, with Pastor Steve Biswell officiating. Visitation will take place at the chapel prior to the service, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Goodwin Cemetery in Goodwin, SD. Military graveside honors will be conducted by Codington County Post #17 of the American Legion along with the Funeral Honors Team of the U.S. Air Force. The pallbearers will be Tony Gebhardt, James Schaffart, Jace Smith, John Kaspar, Ron Fritz, and Wayne Dahlager.

Mark was born on May 26, 1954, in Watertown, SD, to Ira L. and Viola J. (Underhill) Davis. He spent his early years in Watertown before the family relocated to a farm in Deer Creek, MN, where Mark graduated from high school.

In 1972, Mark answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force. He was first stationed in California. His career then took him to Italy for three years. Returning stateside, he served at Grand Forks AFB, ND. In 1983, he was selected to join an advanced team responsible for setting up undisclosed bases near Hahn AFB in Germany. This work often required long days and weeks of training in the field, and his persistence and dedication earned him the rank of Technical Sergeant. Throughout his military career, Mark was often recognized for his hard work and devoted service, earning numerous medals, ribbons, and awards. From 1988 to 1991, Mark was stationed in Rapid City, SD at Ellsworth AFB, completing a proud 18 years of service to his country.

After his honorable military career, Mark excelled as an over-the-road semi-truck driver, retiring in 2022. Throughout his trucking career, Mark's strong work ethic and commitment were recognized through many safety and performance awards.

Mark married his beloved, Anita (Humphrey) Davis, with whom he shared over 33 years until her passing in 2024. He then returned to Watertown to be closer to his siblings and relatives. His home became a gathering place for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who joined him for fishing trips, holidays, and celebrations.

Soon after returning to Watertown, Mark was diagnosed with cancer. He faced his illness with strength and determination. During treatment, he remained hopeful and was planning a new chapter filled with music, fishing, travel, and the joy of playing his guitar and piano. Mark was raised in the Christian faith, which gave him guidance and strength throughout his life. He often turned to the Bible, especially the New Testament, for wisdom and encouragement, instilling those values in his children.

Mark is survived by his children: Tony (Theresa) Gebhardt, Kim (Dave) Meradith, Stacy Daniel, Clarinda (Ron) Loving, Kara (Ilya) Nikanorov, Karriann Graham, Karleen (John) Kaspar, and Katie (Shana) Stringfield; one brother, Mike (Margaret) Davis; two sisters, LaVae Schwalm and Linda Walsh; several nieces and nephews; 25 cherished grandchildren; and the blessing of many great-grandchildren who will carry his memory forward.

He is also remembered by his fiancée, Jessica Dahlager, with whom he shared much happiness in recent months.

Mark was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Anita; his daughter, Kristy Weber, and his son-in-law, Rob Weber; his parents, Ira and Viola Davis; his brothers, Donavon, LeRoy, and Ike; his sisters, Leola Boomgaarden and LuAnn Kroschel.

Mark will be remembered as a man of service, strength, and steadfast love—devoted to his family, his country, and his faith.

Arrangements by Crawford-Osthus Funeral Chapel www.crawfordosthus.com Watertown and Hayti

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