Darrell (Doug) Davenport

Darrell (Doug) Lavern Davenport, 64, Park River ND formerly of Bismarck ND passed away peacefully at the First Care Hospital in Park River ND surrounded by family. Doug was the third of seven gifts to his parents Leonard Lyle Jr. and Margaret Esther (Onstad) Davenport born November 19, 1956. A Celebration of Doug’s life will take place on Thursday, February 11, 2021, at 6:00 with viewing prior from 5-6 PM at Weigel Funeral Home in Mandan, ND. Funeral Services will take place on Friday, February 12th at 2:00 PM with a viewing prior from 1-2 PM at Trinity Lutheran Church in Bismarck ND. Burial will take place at Regan Cemetery, Regan, ND, at a later date. It would make Doug smile to have everyone come to his Celebration of Life wearing #lotsofsocks or crazy socks in honor of World Down Syndrome Day.

Doug was an inquisitive boy, asking questions without ever speaking. He grew up on the family farm along the Missouri River in Baldwin, ND. He enjoyed helping his Dad drive tractor and was a pro at working under the hood of any car his brothers would let him help with. Sitting along the Missouri River with siblings fishing was such a joyful time. Being his Grandpa Leonard Sr.’s shadow was really the thing that brought him the most enjoyment. His brother Donny and him were joined at the hip, they rarely were found apart, always onto the next adventure. He loved his Mom best, it was no secret and she loved him with a special kind of love.

Doug’s adult life was spent bringing joy to the people he met along the way, supported by Enable, Pride, HIT Inc., Community Options, and Friendship. Catholic Charities ND were his guardian services. His caregivers held a special place in Doug’s heart and Doug was an integral part of his caregivers' lives. Doug and Donny were fortunate to spend time together in a group home setting in Bismarck before they spread their wings to live in separate communities. Doug continued to live and work in Bismarck, creating friendships with many people along the way including his bus driver. Everywhere he went you could find him giving hugs, kisses on the cheek, forehead hugs, dancing, playing his air guitar or many people’s favorite was his whistle. Listening to music and buying CD’s at Sam Goody was a weekly ritual, stopping in to see his niece Christy. Fishing with his caregivers and roommate was a favorite pastime as an adult and was something he looked forward to. His trips to the nursing home to see his beloved Mom were another weekly outing he loved. Doug enjoyed attending family events and recently attended his nephew’s wedding. His caregivers or extended family included Dougy in their family excursions, so he was always on the go. He left a lasting impression on staff, community, caregivers, and family. Doug spent his last two years living and working in Park River, ND in a group home with an abundance of wonderful caregivers. Many staff and residents came to Park River Hospital to say goodbye to Doug, including his special friend Ellen. They loved Doug as if he had been a part of their lives forever.

Doug will be welcomed into Heaven by parents, Leonard and Margaret; brothers, David, Donald (Donny), Thomas Davenport; nephew, Samuel Davenport; grandparents, Leonard Sr. and Nadine (Cravin) Davenport, Iver and Emma (Wetzel) Onstad.

Caregivers, too numerous to name and the many people who were blessed to know Doug will miss him and treasure the memories made with him. Our many thanks go out to each person in Doug’s life, you were a blessing to him as I know he was also a blessing to you. We are very grateful Doug had so many people caring for him.

Doug is living on in the hearts of his siblings, Daniel (Debra) Davenport, Baldwin, ND, Sarah (James) Berndt, Wilton, ND, Ruth (Jeff) Schadler, Bismarck, ND; sister-in-law, Ora LaShella (Curtis) Stegman, Neche, ND; nieces and nephews, Diana McCree, Daniel, Daisy (Bryan) Denham, Dustin (Amanda), Darcy Davenport, Darin (Victoria), Sue (Tony) Davenport Martini, AJ, Janel (Eric) Eckroth, Christina (Spencer) Potts, Lillian (Mathew) Mabry, Travis (Mandee), Leland (Tara), April (Michael) Gregoryk, Rebecca Berndt, Christopher (Monique) Berndt, John (Marissa) Berndt, Derek Schadler, Ashlee Schadler, Kelcee Schadler; and many great and great-great nieces and nephews.