DONALD B. DAVIDSON, Jr. April 20, 1929 – July 6, 2025
Donald B. Davidson, Jr., was born on April 20, 1929, in Chicago, IL., the eldest son of Donald B. and Ruth M. Davidson. He was raised with his brother Duncan C. Davidson, Carmel, IN., (deceased) and his sister, Susan M. Merrell, Sun City, AZ. Don passed from this earthly life on July 6, 2025, at the age of 96.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Don studied at Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago, graduating with a BS in Fire Protection & Safety Engineering in 1951. After a stint in the Insurance industry, he joined Los Alamos National Laboratory Safety Division in 1973. Inspired by LANL’s mission, he pursued an MS in Nuclear Engineering at the University of New Mexico, mid-career. He proudly enlisted in service to his country as a member of the US Army Reserve, in Chicago, IL., during his senior year of college. He retired with the rank of Major, 27 years later.
Don felt lucky to have met his wife Lorel Sorensen, at the Fire Insurance Inspection Bureau, and they married in Wheaton, IL., in 1955. Five children eventually joined the family, Deborah, White Rock. NM; Cynthia, Golden Valley, AZ; Donald III, Las Cruces, NM; Douglas (deceased); and Darren, Los Lunas, NM. He joked that 2 girls and 3 boys became an automatic full house. He was proud of his nine grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandson. In a special milestone that many would admire, Don and Lorel were able to enjoy 70 years of marriage.
Realizing Los Alamos was going to be “home”, he affiliated with Pajarito Masonic Lodge #66. Enjoying his fraternal friendships, Don joined the Shriners, York Rite, and Scottish Rite organizations. One of the proudest moments of his life was being recommended and selected for the great honor of being awarded his 33rd degree in Scottish Rite. He and Lorrie together joined the Order of Eastern Star, Los Alamos Chapter #63. He often said that joining such warm and welcoming Charitable Organizations greatly enriched his life.
Celebration of Life will be 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10, at Trinity on the Hill Episcopal Church, Los Alamos NM.
Masonic/Eastern Star Memorial Service will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct.11, at the Masonic Lodge, Los Alamos, NM. All are welcome to either service.