Former Royals broadcaster Bob Davis dies

The legendary broadcaster called Royals games for 16 years.

Legendary broadcaster Bob Davis has passed away at the age of 80, according to the University of Kansas. In addition to his duties with the Jayhawks, Davis broadcast games on TV and radio for the Royals from 1997 to 2013. Davis was also the radio voice for Kansas basketball and football games, joining the university in 1984 and broadcasting until his retirement in 2016.

Davis was a native Kansan, growing up in Topeka and getting his first job at KAYS in Hays. He called numerous big moments for the Jayhawks with eight Final Fours, including championships in 1988 and 2008.

In 1997 he joined the Royals broadcast crew and was known for his enthusiasm and familiar voice. He was known for calling out a “little flair” and his animation upon a big hit.

Bob’s wife Linda died on March 13 after a battle with Parkinson’s. His son Steven followed his father into the broadcast booth, and is the play-by-play man for the Arkansas Travelers in the Double-A Texas League, as well as Kansas Jayhawks women’s basketball.

Our thoughts are with the Davis family, may he rest in peace.