John Geoffrey Davey

John Davey, age 96, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2026, at home surrounded by family. A man of remarkable energy and a lifelong passion for engines and motors of every kind, John lived a life that spanned continents, careers, and countless acts of kindness to those around him.

Family

John is survived by his devoted wife of 65 years, Ann (née Wright) Davey; his two sons, Geoff (Jean) and John (Jane); four grandchildren; Kate, Annabelle, Brian, and Jillian; and one great-grandchild, Oliver Davey. He is also survived by his beloved UK family; Ian, Helen, Emily, Grace and Alice, who remained close to his heart across the miles.

John was predeceased by his parents, Edward and Lillian (Wells) Davey and his older brother, William (Bill) Davey.

Early Life

Born in London, England, John came of age during a time of great change and national resolve. He was very proud to have started serving his country as an Army Cadet at age 13. John left school at the age of 14 and went straight to work on the floor of a de Havilland aircraft factory — a formative experience that ignited a lifelong love of mechanical ingenuity and precision.

At age 18, he continued his service to country in the Royal Army Signal Corps, rising to the rank of Lance Corporal, stationed at Barnard Castle. His two years of service cemented his love of motorcycles and shaped in him the resourcefulness and steady calm that would define him throughout his life.

A New World

At age 22, John made the bold decision to emigrate to Canada, eventually finding his way to Detroit, Michigan — a city that, like him, ran on engines and ambition. It was there that fate intervened in the most delightful way: John sold a young woman named Ann Wright a car. The car, charming as its seller, required frequent trips back to the dealership for maintenance. The couple married in 1961 — and John, ever the practical man, promptly asked Ann to sell the car.

Career

John built a thriving automotive career rooted in expertise and integrity. He was a Certified Master Mechanic — a distinction that reflected not just a credential but a true calling. For 30 years, he owned and operated Imported Cars of Royal Oak, a highly successful Fiat dealership in Royal Oak, Michigan. His business became a trusted institution in the community, and he frequently ran in to former customers in unexpected places. They always had a kind word and were happy to see him.

Retirement and Community

In 2000, John and Ann retired to the family cottage on the shores of Little Glen Lake, embracing the beauty of Northern Michigan with the same enthusiasm John brought to everything in life. They quickly became fixtures in the local community — generous neighbors, willing helpers, and friendly faces in every season.

John was never one to sit still. Whether it was snow to be cleared, leaves to be raked, grass to be cut, or something that simply needed fixing, John was there — tools in hand, spare part at the ready, and not a moment wasted. His friends and family knew they could count on him for anything mechanical, and he gave that help freely and joyfully.

Legacy

John lived by the simple and enduring belief that a life well-lived is one spent in motion — building things, fixing things, and caring for the people around you. He was a man who crossed an ocean, built a business, raised a family, and never once stopped moving until he passed.

He will be remembered for his kind demeanor, his sharp mind, his quick laugh, and the unmistakable sound of an engine he’d just brought back to life. And especially for remaining a resolute Englishman ‘till the end.

A visitation for John will take place on Saturday, July 18th, at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home in Traverse City, from 3:00pm - 5:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in John's name to the Leelanau Conservancy. LINK: Leelanau Conservancy

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