Kyle C. Davis, 50, of Oak Park, died on May 28, 2020 after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on Oct. 9, 1969, he grew up in Stillwater, Oklahoma and received his bachelor’s degree in architecture from Oklahoma State University. Growing up, he was a frequent cast member in his father’s community theater productions as well as those at the university. During these formative years, he also discovered his love of hunting, golf, “bar” sports, and generally engaging in what can only be described as shenanigans.
After graduation, he moved to Denver, Colorado to pursue his chosen vocation with a brief stopover, waiting tables at the Trail Dust steakhouse under the nickname “Copenhagen.” He began his architecture career at Gensler, where he worked for over 20 years, ultimately as a principal, running a studio. Throughout his career, his specialty was the relationship side of the business. In this he thrived and was finally able to combine his love of golf, hunting and architecture. He joined HKS three years ago as a principal, focused on business development in the Chicago studio.
Upon moving to Chicago, he met Kate — someone who complemented his unique perspective on life. Their story continued by getting married and moving to Oak Park. Kaelin and Karsten were welcomed and became the light of his life. In both he found willing recipients upon which to impart his varied skills: baking and cooking with Kaelin, shooting in the Country Club Skeet League with Karsten, and golfing with both children at the Oak Park Country Club.
A self-described Renaissance man, he could beat you at a round of skeet or take your money in a round of golf, then invite you to join his family at a holiday meal, make a key-lime pie from scratch or barbecue an excellent brisket. His unmistakable sartorial style was a combination of his reverence for Ralph Lauren, a reinterpretation of the past, and his own unique point of view. Through it all, he was a collector of people and relationships, making friends wherever he went.
He believed life is a long game. His life was bigger than his body and will live on in his family, friends, and the wonderful stories he leaves behind.
Kyle was the husband of Katherine “Kate” Clemens Davis; the father of Kaelin and Karsten; the son of Judyth and the late Jerry Davis; brother of Kelly (Lisa Egger) Davis; and best friend to his canine companions, Bythel and Miles Davis.
Visitation was held June 1, 2020 at Drechsler, Brown & Williams Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations to Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Center of Northwestern (cancer.northwestern.edu) are appreciated.
