Kert Davis

Kert DavisSeptember 3, 1942-October 7, 2026

Kert Davis was a gentle, soft-spoken and kind man who was always there for the people he loved. He was a loving person who deeply appreciated life, his family and the natural world around him. He never complained, even when faced with tremendous personal challenges and his strength, quiet courage and kindness were an inspiration to all who knew him.

In 2010, Kert was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. What followed was a long and very difficult journey, marked by serious injuries, including a devastating hip injury that ultimately resulted in the removal of his hip, numerous traumatic hospitalizations and surgeries, and years of physical decline. He eventually lost his vision and spent a long period of his life wheelchair-bound. Despite the tremendous suffering he endured, Kert faced his circumstances with courage, resilience and remarkable dignity.

Prior to his battle with Parkinson’s disease, Kert was an extraordinary athlete whose accomplishments reflected his determination, endurance and adventurous spirit. He competed in five Ironman competitions and rode his bicycle across the entire United States, Vietnam and France. He was also an accomplished marathon runner, completing, among others, Boston Marathon, Big Sur Marathon several times, Venice Marathon, Paris Marathon, Marine Corps Marathon, San Francisco Marathon and Paul Masson Marathon. He also completed the Davis Double and ran the entire Big Sur coast, covering more than 130 miles. Kert was strong, athletic and determined, approaching life with quiet confidence and an uncomplicated love of being active and challenging himself. He embraced physical challenges with an adventurous spirit and a determination that seemed to have no limits.

Beyond athletics, Kert had a profound curiosity about life. He loved nature, discovering new things and continually expanding his knowledge. An avid reader, he was always challenging himself to learn and educate himself beyond his degree from Fresno State University. He cherished the beauty of the world and the mysteries of the universe. He pursued his interests with passion and taught himself to become a formidable artist and painter, exploring another side of his creative spirit. His appreciation for nature, the environment and the wonders of the universe were an important part of who he was.

Throughout his long illness, Kert remained the gentle, kind and uncomplaining man he had always been. His life was a testament to perseverance, strength and the quiet dignity with which he faced even the most difficult circumstances. Although Parkinson’s disease took so much from him physically, it could never diminish the remarkably strong person he was or erase the extraordinary life he had lived.

Kert lived a life filled with adventure, accomplishment, curiosity, travel and love. From the extraordinary physical challenges he embraced to the beauty he found in nature and art, he approached life with a spirit that was uniquely his own.

His accomplishments were remarkable, but it was his kindness, humility and gentle nature that made him truly special. Those qualities, along with his love of life and the people closest to him, will remain in the hearts of all who loved him.

Kert is survived by his life partner of 34 years, Lee Hicks; sons Scott and Brett Davis; Chris and KathyDavis; Terry and Betsy Davis; three granddaughters, Cassidy, Riley and Mallory Davis; and numerous nieces and nephews. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

My dearest Kert, may you soar like an eagle through the universes in peace and renewed vigor.