Neil Donald Davis , 91, Minot, and longtime railroad employee died on Wednesday, December 17, 2008 in a Minot nursing home.

Neil was born in Minot, North Dakota on March 13, 1917 to John and Marguerite "Jane" (Hill) Davis. He was reared, with assistance from three special uncles, and educated in Minot and began working for the Great Northern Railroad in 1937. From 1942 to 1945, Neil served in the United States Army, serving in the 729th Railway Operations Battalion.

After his discharge, Neil continued his career with the Great Northern Railroad as a hostler, fireman, and engineer. He became an Amtrak engineer in 1965. Neil retired in 1983 after 46 years of service. Neil and Leila "Shorty" loved to travel to his army reunions and made sure it was included in their Summer travels.

Neil married Leila Leona Rosenau on June 25, 1950 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Minot, North Dakota. They made their home in Minot. They were a very strong couple and included Neil's mom in their lives. Jane lived with them from the time of their marriage until her death in 1982. The three of them raised twosons Jim and Gene.

Neil was a member of the Elks Lodge, Moose Lodge, Railroad Museum Association, VFW, American Legion, Eagles Aerie and Local Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. His hobbies included playing pinochle on a weekly basis with friends, old time music and movies, gardening and yard work. After his retirement he volunteered as an engineer operator for the Magic City Express in Roosevelt Park for several years. Railroading was a way of life for him. Neil was well versed in the history of Minot and was a great story teller who could tell stories for hours.

Surviving family includes his wife of 58 years Leila, Minot; children: James (Nancy) Davis of Minot and Gene (Christine) Davis of Fargo; grandchildren: Julie Ann Davis-Kennedy, Jeffrey Kennedy, and Nathan (Becky) Davis ; Garrett, Gabrielle and Grace Davis and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins

Neil was preceded in death by his parents .

Funeral: Saturday, December 20, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. in St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Minot, ND.
Interment: Rosehill Cemetery, Minot, ND
Visitation: Friday, December 19, 2008, from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the Thomas Family Funeral Home of Minot.
Memorials are preferred to St. Paul's Lutheran Church and the Railroad Museum.