Born in London, England, John left school at 14 to work at the de Havilland aircraft factory before serving with the Royal Army Signal Corps, attaining the rank of Lance Corporal. At 22, he emigrated to Canada and eventually made his way to Detroit, Michigan, where he met the love of his life, Ann Wright. They married in 1961.

A Certified Master Mechanic, John owned and operated Imported Cars of Royal Oak, a successful Fiat dealership, for 30 years. He and Ann retired in 2000 to their cherished cottage on Little Glen Lake, where John became a beloved neighbor, always ready to lend a hand — or a wrench — in any season.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Ann (née Wright); his sons Geoff ( Jean) and John ( Jane); grandchildren Kate, Annabelle, Brian, and Jillian; great-grandchild Oliver Davey; and his treasured UK family; Ian, Helen, Emily, Grace and Alice. He was predeceased by his parents, Edward and Lillian (Wells) Davey, and his brother William (Bill) Davey.

A time of gathering for John will take place on Saturday, July 18th at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home in Traverse City, from 3:00pm -5:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in John’s name to The Leelanau Conservancy.