Ed Davenport Jr.

Edward "Ed" Davenport Jr., 49, born in St. Louis, died at home Saturday, March 15, 2008, surrounded by his family.

He leaves behind his wife of 13 years, Dina Rosengarten, and three beautiful children, Michaela, Trey and Rachel, the loves of his life. He is also survived by his parents, Peggy and LeRoy Davenport; a sister, Angela Bedwell (Derek); nieces and nephews, Hannah, Ethan, Isaac and Lauren, all of Missouri; in addition to many loving relatives and friends.

Ed earned a B.S. and a master's of psychological counseling from Southeast Missouri State University. In 1990, Ed moved to Tucson, Ariz., and pursued his career in the mental health field at ACCM and La Frontera.

In 1995 Ed combined his love for the outdoors and passion to help children by creating a not-for-profit organization called Outdoor Confidence, providing outdoor education to children and their families. He loved to teach children how to use a map and compass, to fish and to camp.

As the Arizona Game and Fish Sport Fishing instructor in Tucson six years, Ed had the joy of teaching children about fishing, the importance of conservation, the beauty of nature and the great outdoors. Ed was instrumental in establishing the Miracle Manor Neighborhood Association and obtaining Back to Basic funds. His leadership and commitment to the community continues to enhance the lives of many.

Ed was diagnosed with frontal lobe dementia several years ago, and despite the challenges caused by this awful disease, he continued to be a devoted father who loved to cuddle with his children and watch Saturday morning cartoons in bed with them. He had an infectious laugh that continues on in his children, beautiful blue eyes that always had a twinkle, and at a time when he had no words, reflected the love he had for his family.

Ed taught us all many life lessons and was a gift to all who knew him. We are all blessed for having him in our lives and for sharing his love with us. He will be greatly missed by his family.

Funeral service for Ed took place at Evergreen Mortuary and Cemetery in Tucson.

Contributions may be made in Ed's memory to Send a Kid to Camp, P.O. Box 16141, Tucson, Ariz., 85732-6141, or The Old Pueblo Chapter of Trout Unlimited No. 531, 7698 Sombrero Peak Drive, Tucson, Ariz., 85743.