Lynn Edwin Davenport 1940-2026

Born Sept. 27, 1940, Lynn was the son of Donald O. and Ruth R. Rowse Davenport. He embodied qualities that would define his life — integrity, steadiness and a genuine interest in people.

Lynn had a natural gift for conversation and connection, finding joy in talking with people from all walks of life — friends, colleagues, family members and strangers alike. Whether over a shared meal, at the negotiating table, on the golf course or striking up a conversation with someone he had just met, Lynn had a way of making others feel seen, heard and valued. He listened attentively, asked thoughtful questions, and took sincere interest in the lives of those around him, often turning conversations outward rather than toward himself.

He was a graduate of Westminster College, earning a degree in business administration in 1962. He began his career in banking with Mellon Bank and Equibank in Pittsburgh, serving in various lending and commercial real estate roles from 1962 to 1980.

His professional journey later led him to the Edward J. DeBartolo Corporation, where he served for nearly 25 years as executive vice president and chief financial officer during a period of significant growth, including the company’s transition to a publicly traded enterprise.

After retiring from the DeBartolo Corporation, Lynn remained active and engaged, choosing to return to work with Cocca Development, where he enjoyed sharing his decades of experience and continuing to contribute in a flexible, collaborative role. He officially retired at the age of 74, though his curiosity, engagement and love of meaningful work never truly slowed.

Throughout his professional life, Lynn was widely respected for his sound judgment, calm leadership, principled fairness and unwavering integrity.

On Aug. 18, 1962, Lynn married Joan B. Macinski, his beloved wife and partner of more than 63 years. As a husband, Lynn was deeply committed and steadfastly supportive. Together, they built a life rooted in love, loyalty and faith. His dedication to his marriage was evident in the way he showed up every day — with care, consistency and strength. Family was always at the center of everything he did.

As a father, Lynn was steady, dependable and endlessly caring. His love was lived, not merely spoken — shown through a lifetime of providing, protecting and being present. His sons knew they could always count on him for guidance, support or simply the comfort of knowing he was there.

Nothing brought Lynn greater pride than his six grandchildren. He was actively involved in their lives — encouraging, engaged and deeply invested in who they were becoming. He set high expectations not out of pressure, but out of love — believing in their potential and teaching them the value of hard work, respect and doing the right thing. His guidance, standards and unconditional support will remain with them always.

When he wasn’t working, Lynn truly enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. He loved being social, sharing conversation and laughter with friends and family, often with a glass of wine in hand. He especially cherished time spent at Lake Milton, where he felt at peace — surrounded by water, good company and moments that brought him joy.

Golf was another great love of his life. Whether on the course or enjoying the camaraderie the game brought, golf was a source of happiness and relaxation for him. It was never just about the score — it was about the friendships, the time outdoors and the enjoyment of the game itself. He found both joy and community at Tippecanoe Country Club, where he not only spent countless hours golfing with friends but also proudly served on the board.

He also greatly enjoyed time at his winter home in Bonita Springs, Florida, where he embraced the warmth and a slower pace of life. It was a place of comfort and happiness, filled with time shared with friends and family and many lasting memories.

Throughout his battle with cancer, Lynn faced each day with remarkable strength, optimism and courage. Even in the most difficult moments, he remained focused on the people he loved, inspiring all who walked beside him with his resilience and grace.

Lynn will be remembered as an honorable man of quiet strength, deep integrity and genuine presence — with a warm heart and welcoming nature that made people feel comfortable, seen and valued. He carried himself with respect for all, navigating differences without judgment and earning trust across a wide range of personalities and perspectives. His integrity was not situational — it was who he was. His legacy lives on through the lessons he taught, the love he shared and the countless memories held by those fortunate enough to know him.

He is survived by his wife, Joan; his sons, David S. Davenport of Avon Lake and Steven S. Davenport of Canfield; his sisters, Donna Searle McLay and Dorothy (Frank) O’Stafy; his brother, Dick (Kathy) Davenport; and his six grandchildren, Lynn, Grace, Katherine, Ann, Allyson and Ryan Davenport.

In addition to his parents, Lynn was preceded in death by his sister, Ruth Davis Evans.

He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Calling hours will be 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 1, at Canfield Presbyterian Church, Canfield. A service celebrating Lynn’s life will immediately follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society (donate.cancer.org) or to Harvest of Hope (harvestofhopeglobal.org), a nonprofit Lynn supported that provides care and education for orphaned and impoverished children.

Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Boardman-Canfield Chapel. Family and friends are invited to visit www.higgins-reardon.com to share memories and condolences.

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