Obituary for Robert E "Sonny" Davis

Robert E. "Sonny" Davis, 94, of Pottsville, passed away on Monday, Sept. 6, 2021, at Orwigsburg Center. He was born in Pottsville on Sept. 6, 1927. Sonny was the son of the late Evan H. Davis and Mildred J. (Penberth) Davis. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Pottsville. He belonged to Pulaski Lodge 216, where he served as the Past Master. Sonny was a big fan of the Big Band Era and was a great dancer.

He had many of the Big Bands from that time at Pine View Acres, to name a few, like Buddy Rich, Count Basie, Myron Floren, and Tommy Dorsey. Sonny started his catering business through his father's store, which originated on Minersville Street as a grocery and butcher shop which later had moved to 11th and Market streets in Pottsville. When he mentioned to his father about doing a banquet for their church, his father handed him the cookbook and said, "You're on your own," and of course with the help of his mother. Through catering, he purchased Pine View Sportsman Club in January of 1964. That's where Pine View Acres Restaurant and Cocktail Lounge originated. Sonny was the Owner of Pine View Acres and was in business for 57 years. Sonny loved people and hosting Christmas parties, weddings, and special occasions. He put on his chef's coat up until the day he passed away. He was in the Army Air Force during World War II, where he was a B29 Mechanic.

In addition to his parents, Sonny was preceded in death by his wife, Freda M. (Savoy) Davis, who passed away in 2020. Also, he was preceded in death by a sister, Shirley Gronski.

Sonny is survived by a son, Evan H. Davis, husband of Patricia, of Schuylkill Haven, a son, Bruce S. Davis, husband of Nancy, of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, a son, Rodney R. Davis, husband of Carol, of Pottsville, a son, Craig A. Davis, husband of Karen, of Boca Raton, Florida; a daughter, Lisa A. Davis, of Pottsville, and a companion of many years, Lucille Spaar; 13 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; great-great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

A religious service will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 13, 2021, at James H. Evans Funeral Home Inc., Saint Clair, with the Rev. Chris Rothharpt officiating. Friends are invited to call from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment with Military Honors by the Saint Clair Veterans Honor Guard be in Schuylkill Memorial Park, Schuylkill Haven. James H. Evans Funeral Home Inc., Saint Clair, is in charge of arrangements.