Theodore Evan Davies

Theodore Evan Davies, 98, of Hudson Ohio, passed away peacefully after a sudden and brief illness March 6, 2013 at Akron City Hospital with his children at his side. Born in Salem, Ohio, he was an Ohio resident for most of his life, the last 52 years being in Hudson.

His children and grandchildren were the pride of his heart. When he wasn't caught up in his next big invention, they and their accomplishments were the center of his world. His children deeply loved him and were inspired by his zest for life and persistent drive for excellence. He is survived by son Royal Ingersoll of Arlington, Va., daughter Cindy Lantry and her husband Dave of Seattle, Wash. and their children Todd, Megan and Kevin, son Daniel Davies and his wife Karey Krauter of Palo Alto, California, daughter Virginia Lenker and her husband Brian of Seattle, Washington and their children Elizabeth and William, as well as many nieces and nephews. Also remembering him with love is his adopted family of friends and staff at the Laurel Lake Retirement Community. He is predeceased by his wife Helen of 54 years, his daughter Grace Ingersoll, and his brothers Maurice, Richard, Norman and Dean.

A graduate of the College of Wooster, Ted studied philosophy and the great philosophers who would speak to him for his entire life. However, as he often said, "you can't make money being a philosopher." Ted joined his brother Norman at North American Manufacturing as a salesman, taught himself the engineering of North American's products, and soon found his calling when he realized he knew how to make things better. He invented an improved ceramics firing manufacturing process; his invention is credited as the source of most of the country's ceramic and brick products. To his last day, Ted was working on new inventions that would change the world.

When Ted wasn't inventing, he was dabbling with his characteristic intensity, excitement and persistence in an amazing variety of other pursuits. When he lived in Michigan, Ted was an actor and director in community theater, giving voice to his fascination with plays and all things literary. He was a lover and scholar of music and art, proud to show off local opera, symphony and museums to his friends and loved ones. He was a voracious reader, especially biographies of great historical figures that inspired him. He was famous for his garden at 30 High Street in Hudson, one of the highlights of the annual Hudson Garden Tour for many years. Ted was an ardent supporter of Western Reserve Academy, sending two of his children there and contributing his gardening expertise.

The family would like to express its special appreciation to the staff of Laurel Lake, especially Katie Jones, for being there when they couldn't be, making him laugh, and listening to his stories. The family would also like to thank the staff of the Akron City Hospital Palliative Care unit for making his way to the other side smooth and full of light. A memorial service will be at a later date. Donations may be made to the Laurel Lake Retirement Community in Memory Of Ted Davies, 200 Laurel Lake Drive, Hudson OH 44236, or to the charity of one's choice.