Joseph Davich

Joseph John Davich

Joseph J. Davich, 95, lifelong Hibbing resident, passed away Friday, January 15, 2016, at home, after a lengthy battle with CLL, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, cancer.

He was born in the family home on Sept. 14, 1920, to Nick and Anna (Petek) Davich in Hibbing, MN.

He left Hibbing High School in the 11 ^th grade to join the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC Camp) during the depression to help with family expenses.  He was later drafted in to the US Army in 1942, and proudly served his country during World War II, serving three years in Europe.

Upon his discharge from the service, he worked in the Twin Cities, and then returned to Hibbing when he married Della Falbo.  Joe worked in the mining industry as a skilled welder until his retirement from M.A. Hanna Mining Company.  He had a sharp mind, a strong work ethic, and he valued education.  He was generous to his family and loved every moment he could spend with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

At the age of 94, his active lifestyle allowed him to deer hunt, work in his garden, and play golf, still taking “skins” from his playing partners at Hibbing Municipal Golf Course.  He is motto was “think positive and have a great day.”

He is survived by his children:  Joe (Merirose) Davich of Little Falls, MN, and Jean Davich and Dean Davich, both of Hibbing; grandchildren:  Rachel (Jason) Isaak of Plymouth, MN, Mathew Davich of Mankato, MN, Carlee Davich of Mound, MN, Shane (fiancé Lynnette Bustamante and her children Marcus and John) Bruno of Virginia, MN; great-grandchildren Isaiah Bruno and Colton Isaak; and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Della, in 2009; by his parents; by three brothers:  Paul, Steve, and Peter Davich; and by two sisters, Mary Novak and Rose DeZurik.

The family of Joe Davich would like to thank all the Fairview Hospice Staff; all the nurses, including his case nurse, Marsha Fillman; Dr. Copeman; Rose, the family hospice care-giver; and Justin and Amanda, the care-givers from Cherish PCA.  A big “thank-you” to all for your expertise, timeless effort of support, and kindness during Joe’s journey.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Fairview Range Hospice, Mesaba Mall, Hibbing, MN 55746.

Visitation will be 5—7 PM Friday, January 22, 2016, at Dougherty Funeral Home, Hibbing, with parish wake prayers at 6:30 PM.  Visitation will continue on Saturday, Jan. 23, 2016, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, Hibbing, for one hour prior to the 11 AM funeral Mass.  Interment will be in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hibbing.  To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.doughertyofhibbing.com .