Reposted from Braman Mortuary
Mark W. Davis, 69, passed away peacefully at home October 28, 2024, after a short battle with cancer.
A long-time spokesman for Union Pacific Railroad, Mark’s ability to remain calm and reassuring in any situation was renowned. He traveled with the “Go Team” to derailments, as well as with the fan-favorite Steam Team for UP 844 and UP 3985. He was proud of his association with UP’s sponsorship of the 1996 and 2002 Olympics, traveling with the Olympic Torch to both Atlanta and Salt Lake City.
Mark was born March 8, 1955, to James and Sara (Hulsewede) Davis in St. Louis, MO. A hockey player in his youth, he was an avid fan of Blues hockey. He learned to also root for the Pittsburgh Penguins and Philadelphia Flyers to humor his wife, Eileen.
He was an enthusiastic fan of baseball, favoring his St. Louis Cardinals, and loved taking a week’s vacation to attend the College World Series at Rosenblatt Stadium.
Mark earned his degree in Communications from Central Missouri State and was very proud to be a Fighting Mule. In spite of the mascot, in life, he was steadfast, but never stubborn.
“Cool” was his strong suit and he incorporated it into communications for UP’s “Cool Fuel,” as well as into his annual Christmas message, “Have a Cool Yule.”
Retiring from Union Pacific in 2015 after 34 years, Mark found a new passion in welding and metal work. He excelled at happily creating art for friends and family. One of his greatest disappointments after falling ill was all the projects he would leave incomplete.
Mark is survived by his wife Eileen; daughters Lauren, Ashley (Josh Sherman) and Michelle (Patrick Storey); stepdaughters Kathleen (Aaron van Boer) and Emily; stepson Joshua (Chelsea Wade); sister Tina (Dale Reid); grandchildren Presley, Hendrix, Monroe, Carter and Cooper; his Friday night date club; his loving pup, Guinness; and many, many beloved friends.
A vigil service will be held Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 5 p.m., at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 5801 Oak Hills Dr., Omaha, NE, immediately followed by a Gathering of Friends and Family until 8 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to Muddy Paws Second Chance Rescue, Council Bluffs, Iowa.
To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Mark W. Davis, please click here to visit our the Braman Mortuary Sympathy Store.
All Content Copyright © Missouri Pacific Historical Society, 2024, unless otherwise indicated. By using this site, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Your membership supports production of our quarterly magazine, The Eagle, our annual calendar, and our continuing efforts to digitize and present our archives.
Regular Members receive 4 issues of the Eagle, MPHS Calendar, member discounts at the Company Store, full access to the MPHS Archives, and access to participate on the MPHS Forums.
Based on 12-month period beginning with receipt of dues
Includes a subscription to our quarterly magazine, The Eagle
New members will receive the current issue of The Eagle upon receipt of dues
Includes a full-color calendar for the following year (issued with 3rd quarter The Eagle)
Includes a 5% discount on many items in the company store
Access to the online MPHS Forums
Available anywhere in the world
Sustaining Members receive all the benefits of Regular Members, plus donate $25 toward MPHS Operating Expenses.
Recognition in The Eagle.
Based on 12-month period beginning with receipt of dues
Includes a subscription to our quarterly magazine, The Eagle
New members will receive the current issue of The Eagle upon receipt of dues
Includes a full-color calendar for the following year (issued with 3rd quarter The Eagle)
Includes a 7.5% discount on many items in the company store
Access to the online MPHS Forums
Available anywhere in the world
Your name listed in The Eagle
$25 of your dues are tax deductible
Eagle Members receive all the benefits of Regular and Sustaining Members, plus donate $50 toward MPHS Operating Expenses.
Recognition in The Eagle.
Based on 12-month period beginning with receipt of dues
Includes a subscription to our quarterly magazine, The Eagle
New members will receive the current issue of The Eagle upon receipt of dues
Includes a full-color calendar for the following year (issued with 3rd quarter The Eagle)
Includes a 10% discount on many items in the company store
Access to the online MPHS Forums
Available anywhere in the world
John Bromley print (new members, not renewals)
Your name listed in The Eagle
$50 of your dues are tax deductible
