John Packard Davis

John Packard Davis, 71, of Niceville, Florida passed away Thursday, June 3, 2021, with his wife Kathy by his side. 

Known as “Packy” by his friends and family, John was born October 25,1949 in Chicago, Illinois to Dr. and Mrs. J.W. Davis.  He was raised in Fairfield, Iowa and graduated from Fairfield High School in 1968. That Fall, he enlisted in the Army’s “high school to flight school” program and completed helicopter training to fly Cobra gunships, achieving the rank of Warrant Officer. He served two tours flying in Vietnam, earning numerous medals and commendations, including the Silver Star and two bronze stars for bravery.

He married Kathleen Adam from Packwood, Iowa on April 17, 1971. 

During John’s military career that spanned over twenty-six years, he flew both Cobra and Apache helicopters.  During his army service, he piloted a Cobra in the film Courage Under Fire starring Meg Ryan and Denzel Washington. He retired from the Army in 1996, achieving the rank of CW5 Master Warrant Officer. 

John was a graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, earning a B.S. in Aeronautics.  He also held FAA commercial aviation ratings in airplanes, multiengine aircraft and helicopters, as well as, an airline transport pilot’s license.

After retiring in 1995, he accepted commercial aviation positions with Acadian Ambulance in Louisiana, PHI Aviation and Era Aviation, Inc. in the Gulf of Mexico.  John was promoted to Director of Flight Operation before retiring to Niceville, Florida in 2017. 

John’s passion for aviation extended to his personal life, as he was known to fly friends and family to exciting locations often just for a long weekend.  He was a lifelong golfer and lover of water sports of all kinds, including sailing, water skiing and surfing.

John was known as much for his quick wit and charming personality as he was for his bravery and quiet humility.  He loved mentoring young pilots and enjoyed pushing himself personally and professionally.  He was a loving brother and uncle and a devoted “dog dad” to his two adorable rat terriers, Cookie and Daphne.

He is survived by his wife, Kathy, as well as his sister, Susie Steinbeck, two nieces Sommer Lyons and Devon Steinbeck.

Interment will take place at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Fairfield Golf and Country Club in Fairfield, Iowa Sunday, August 1, 2021, from 2-4 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to either FG&CC or Noah’s Ark and mailed to Nancy Horras, 1208 Kodi Circle, Fairfield, Iowa 52556.