Richard Alan (Rick) Davidsavor, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and pillar of the community, passed away on September 21, 2023, at the age of 67 at his home in Wolf Creek.

He was born on July 30, 1956, in Amery, to his proud parents, Richard (Pat) Davidsavor and Evelyn (Jean) Johnson.

Rick's early years were marked by academic success, culminating in his graduation from Luck High School as class speaker. However, his journey through school was unique, as he did not immediately receive his diploma due to significant outstanding detentions, a testament to his vibrant personality.

In 1976, Rick married Barbara Swenson, the love of his life, and together, they raised their two cherished sons, Travis and Troy, in the close-knit community of Cushing and Wolf Creek.

Rick's life was defined by an unwavering commitment to public service. He dedicated an incredible 51 years to the Cushing Rural Fire Department, serving as an EMT-I, first responder, firefighter, assistant fire chief, and community volunteer. His passion for firefighting led him to teach various courses in the field at WITC, where he was an instructor, sharing his expertise in vehicle extrication, water rescue, high angle rescue and numerous related topics to colleagues across the state. Beyond firefighting, Rick served as a part-time police officer in several municipalities in Polk and Burnett Counties. He also worked as a deputy at Polk County, exemplifying his dedication to his community. His patrols on boat and snowmobile not only focused on safety but also provided valuable education and positive interactions to those he served. In recognition of his dedication to the community, Rick was honored with the State of Wisconsin 2021 Hometown Hero Award - 28th Assembly District First Responder of the Year. As a first responder, Rick directly impacted the lives of hundreds of people throughout the years.

Rick served as the sextant at the Wolf Creek Cemetery and spent many evenings carefully preparing graves for the families in the community. He was also never far when maintenance was needed at the Wolf Creek Church, where he and his family worship.

Throughout his life, Rick wore many hats and kept his hands busy. He worked as a truck driver for Shafer Construction and as a truck driver for Salem Carpet Mills (Shaw) delivering carpets to stores across the upper Midwest. To spend more time with his family, he accepted the role of road maintenance for the Town of Sterling, one of the largest rural townships in Wisconsin, and later for the Polk County Highway Department, where he eventually retired. He also owned and operated Aqua-Trek Divers, a business where he, his sons, family, and friends performed salvage diving, vehicle recovery, and installed and removed docks and boat lifts on the many area lakes.

As a man who couldn’t rest idle, Rick's retirement was short-lived. He began working part-time for Environmental Stone and, most recently, at Neo Electric where he enjoyed his role as equipment mover and as a radio car operator helping with electrical construction at airports across the area.

Rick's greatest joy was being a father and grandfather. His two grandchildren, Josh and Bren Davidsavor, held a special place in his heart, and he was ever willing to share his wisdom and life lessons with them. His hobbies and interests were many - he enjoyed traveling and exploring with his family, hunting, reading, beekeeping, trapping, and gardening. Rick was known for his unshakable confidence and his willingness to charge into any situation. He was never without an opinion, wouldn’t miss a chance to let you know how to do what you were doing better, and made a lasting impact on everyone he encountered.

Rick is survived by his wife Barb of Wolf Creek, son and wife Travis and Deb Davidsavor and their daughter Bren of Esko, Minnesota, son Troy Davidsavor of St. Croix Falls, grandson Josh Davidsavor of Milltown, siblings: brother Steve and wife Brenda of Atlas; brother Doug of Circle Pines, Minnesota; brother Jerry of Balsam Lake; sister Kelly Rogers and partner Rob Spotz of Tunas, Missouri; and half-brother James (Buck) Maack of Henderson, Nevada. He is also survived by sister-in-law Carolyn and husband Roger Van Denheuval of Hewitt, Minnesota; brother-in-law Chuck and wife Delores Swenson of Alpha; brother-in-law Tim Swenson of Alpha; sister-in-law Marcia and husband Jeff Lade of Trade Lake; and brother-in-law Marlin and wife DeAnne Swenson of Eau Claire. Rick is remembered with love by numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and countless friends and colleagues who were fortunate enough to share in his life's journey.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father-in-law, Doris and Kenneth Swenson of Alpha, his mother Jean Maack of Henderson, Nevada, and father and stepmother Pat and Louise Davidsavor or St. Croix Falls.

Rick Davidsavor's memory will forever be cherished, and his legacy of service and dedication will continue to inspire us all. A celebration of his remarkable life will be held at the Cushing Community Center on Sunday, October 8, 2023, to honor the man who touched the hearts of so many. Visitation will be from noon to 2:00 pm. Pastor Mark Peacock will lead a service at 2:00 pm with reception and food to follow. A private interment at Wolf Creek Cemetery will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that any memorials be made to either the Cushing Rural Fire Department or the Wolf Creek Cemetery Association, two organizations close to Rick's heart.

Last Update: Sep 24, 2023 1:05 pm CDT