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David Reavis Obituary

Memorial services for David Earl Reavis, 74, Lawrence will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 28, 2017 at Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. He passed away Wednesday, March 22, 2017 at Baldwin City Healthcare.

David was born February 14, 1943 in Kansas City, KS the son of Melvin Lewis and Mary Louise (Newby) Reavis.

He graduated from Shawnee Mission North High School in 1961 and went on to graduate from Kansas City Community College and then to the University of Kansas where he received his BA Degree in American Studies with concentration in English, Sociology, and American Culture.

He served his country in the United States Army Military Police during the Vietnam War.

David was a Vice President and an active member of the Kansas State FOP and local lodge #2. He also served on the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Commission for eight years and in 1980 he was appointed to the Governor's Committee on Law Enforcement Standards and Training. He attended many police related training courses and workshops.

He started his career as a Reserve Deputy Sheriff for Johnson County. He was then hired as a dispatcher for the Lawrence Police Department in 1967 and in 1968 became a police officer for the Lawrence Police Department. In 1979 he was promoted to Detective until he retired in 1993 with 31 years of law enforcement service. He then opened the Reavis Agency, a private detective agency.

He married Nancy Elaine Lute in June 29, 1968 in Appleton City, MO. She preceded David in death on November 19, 1992. He later married Barbara Carol Brown on May 31, 1997 in Lawrence. She also preceded him in death on December 6, 2004.

Survivors include his son, Joel D. Reavis, Lawrence; and stepson, Todd A. Fitzpatrick, Wichita, KS.

Memorials may be made in his name to a charity of donor's choice and may be sent in care of the Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Lawrence Journal-World from Mar. 24 to Mar. 25, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for David Reavis

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Samuel Smith

October 22, 2018

Dave..i wish i would have called you one more time. You told me about mom and it crushed my heart. I missed her passing with great regret. You made her so happy, and you have my condolences for that. I've never been a friend of the polices but you were more than a label. You my friend helped her die in peace...i hope you went pleasntly to join her in eternity for a never ending happiness on the simple farm life you guys invisioned.

Marla Dalquest

March 31, 2017

My deepest sympathy to all Dave's friends and family. I have precious memories that I cherish of this gentle giant with a huge heart! Marla Dalquest

Kim Jackson

March 29, 2017

Dave was the first person I met when I started at the State Gaming Agency in 2002. His hospitality and sense of humor were second to none. I'm saddened to hear of his passing, and I send prayers of comfort to his son during this difficult time.

March 28, 2017

Joel: We were so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. I remember you and your Mom and Dad every time I walk by your old house on 28th Terrace. You and your family were wonderful neighbors and friends! Your Dad will be missed and remembered by so many people because of the positive teaching he placed on their lives. Our prayers are with you and your step-brother at this dark hour. May God bless you both!!! The Ratliff family (Tom, Linda Bill, Jim)

Peggy Cobb

March 28, 2017

Rest in peace, Dave.

Ed and Lori Brunt

March 27, 2017

There will never be another Dave Reavis. His generosity and love of life (and all things law enforcement) was apparent in all that he did for our community. Humor and laughter carried him through, no matter what circumstance he faced. Despite the somber duties of his police career he never took himself too seriously. He loved a good joke, and if it was aimed your direction you knew he cared. We will miss Dave, but will relive fond memories and stories...with much laughter.

Wayne and Nancy Othick

March 26, 2017

We were sorry to hear of David's passing-
he served many years with Wayne at LPD
a good officer and friend-Joel and Todd
and families-may God bless each of you
and remember all the wonderful times
you shared together. Gods blessings on each of you.

Tina (Rose) Roseberry

March 25, 2017

David, has always been a great family friend and close lifelong friend of my dad. I have so many fond memories of our families together. We spent several fun vacations together, while at FOP conventions, parties and cookouts for the police families out at the lodge, and I loved babysitting for his son Joel.
I will truly miss him and feel blessed to have had the opportunity to know him. His humor and laugh are unforgettable.
My sincere sympathies to Joel and David's family. May he rest in peace.

Leo Souders

March 25, 2017

Dave, You were a bright spot in the many lives you touched, whether it was as a civilian, or as a Police Officer. A Great Man, Husband, Father and Friend. You will be missed by many of us who had the privilege of knowing you. May God Bless your family and comfort them during this difficult time. Thanks for your friendship as it meant the world to me.

Charles L Bloss Jr

March 25, 2017

I met David when we were testifying at the statehouse in favor of concealed carry. His presentation was better than mine, I might add. I instantly liked him. I came across his name several times as we both made statements online in favor of similar topics. I served for 30 years as a deputy for SN county. David was a great guy, very intelligent, obviously good at his job, and got along well with people. It was a privilege knowing him. My deepest sympathy to his family and friends.

Margie (Williams) Vaughan

March 24, 2017

Dave was a gem of a man, who I had the great fortune to know when he married my dear friend Barb. I'm glad that they had a few happy years together. I will always think fondly of Dave for his humor, laughter and the way he loved Barb.

Tracy Rose

March 24, 2017

You were a huge part of my childhood and are included in so many of my most fondest memories from all of our FOP convention trips to range time at the FOP. You were a true family friend and I know my dad loved you like a brother. More than a brother in blue. You were family. May you soar the cosmos and bask in the light of the Lord until we all meet again. I love you!

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Funeral services provided by:

Warren-McElwain Mortuary & Cremation Services - Lawrence Chapel

120 W 13th St, Lawrence, KS 66044

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