International LeatherSIR / Leatherboy

and Community Bootblack

Honoring the past, Playing in the present, Building the future

Sir Robert, from the first time I got to know you and realize that while my boy puppy eyes would not work on Sir Dan my South Central 2004 title Sir and that boy ivons didn't work on you being the boys we were we switched title Sir's to use boy puppy eyes on. Competing at ILSb wiht you guys in 2004 was a great honor and it was a great honor to get to know you both before that weekend and afterward. Your honor diginity,compassion and love for your follow man is something that most of us can only hope to achieve. While fate has stolen you from us, it can not steal our memories of you, your smile,your laught and your humitity.

I know when its time that we meet again, it will be my honor and privilage to present to you again and see that sweet face of your looking down at me with that reassuring smile.

The greatest gift you have left us all in our sorrow of you moving on is that you made us all a bit better for knowing.

Rest well my brother,know you will be loved and remebers

In deep respect and honor.
boy ed kosary
American Leather boy 2006
South Central Leather boy 2004

Have to sat that I will miss you SIR you we a great guy and funny as all hell. I remember when I met you in Pittsburgh for the first time on my birthday, there was a group of staying at Michael’s house for the weekend and you had an event to do but you also took time out to celebrate someone’s birthday that you didn’t even know. Then I got the chance to meet up with you and puppy Steve at CLAW, which was a fun night. I am so glad that I got to see you again in July this year. You are a great guy and will be forever missed.

I will remember that afternoon at Inferno when Jon Krongard broke the news that Robert had donated the kidney Tug received. As Jon maintained, that was real brotherhood.

I will also remember the conversation Robert and I had on the last night of MAL 2 years ago. We didn't discuss International Leather Sir, as some people have assumed. We discussed our pasts: how most of our contemporaries had died of AIDS; how his generation had picked up the pieces of the leather community when my generation had died off--even though they weren't ready; how that was happening again with the generation that followed his. And we were both baffled when Rik came over in the middle of the coversation and kissed Robert's head.

We were both survivors, and I had hoped to keep encountering his smile and hug for many years to come. It was not to be. I'll miss Robert.

Robert,

Thank you for brightening my life and the lives of all who had the pleasure of knowing you! Although you were International Leather Sir, it will always be my pleasure to refer to you as my sash brother! You will definitely be missed!

Paul D. Bohli
MD Mr Drummer 2000
aka Momma’s Bastard

Well what can I say that hasn't already been said by Robert's many friends and leather family. Robert was not only a Leather Man but a Kind, Caring, Twisted and Kinky Man. He was a great friend with a Big Heart and a "lil bro" to me, when i saw this Little (HAHA) Man in the Maryland Leather Sir/boy contest I said "think he's got what it takes to be MLS?" Well he fucked up and won !! but he didn't stop there the lil Shit took it all the way to ILS and he touched so many men women and boys along the way.

I will say to my LIL gaurdian angle "You will always be in my heart and mind and keep doing what you Loved to do! Be with the tribe and help guide us from where you are. I LOVE YOU !

Mike Mitchell aka Cornfed
Maryland Leather SIR 2003
Mid Atlantic Leather SIR 2003

I will miss Sir Robert very much, He was a man I looked up to and wanted to know so much more about him.

Sir Robert will always have a place in my heart , I will never forget you.

The memories we have of you are strong and true. And the way you will live on in all of us. You will be missed. But all you have given us will live on as testament to your strength and goodness.

I will remember that afternoon at Inferno when Jon Krongard broke the news that Robert had donated the kidney Tug received. As Jon maintained, that was real brotherhood.

I will also remember the conversation Robert and I had on the last night of MAL 2? 3? years ago. We didn't discuss International Leather Sir, as some people have assumed. We discussed our pasts: how most of our contemporaries had died of AIDS; how his generation had picked up the pieces of the leather community when my generation had died off--even though they weren't ready; how that was happening again with the generation that followed his. And we were both baffled when Rik came over in the middle of the coversation and kissed Robert's head.

We were both survivors, and I had hoped to keep encountering his smile and hug for many years to come. It was not to be. I'll miss Robert.

Bob Guenther
Mr. Maryland Leather 2000

I was saddened to hear of Bob's passing. He will be missed by all who knew him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and those who were closest to him. "Good night, sweet prince,and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest!"

when i was at the international contest in 2005, SIR Robert was my judge and even though he was he was always there giving me encouragement being that it was my first major leather contest. he was like a mentor to me. i met his pup there as well. when i heard that he had passed i cried and i am really going to miss him!!! the leather community is going to miss him as well. god needed him more than we did. PUP! I am here if you need someone to talk to. hugs!

I was not fortunate enough to meet Sir Robert, but it is clear that the Leather community lost a great man with Sir Robert's passing. My thoughts continue to be with His family and friends in their time of grief and celebration of His life.

He helped me learn about confidence and relationships...his beiga fellow squid wasn't bad either.

i am glad i got to know Him

I have just heard the news and find it very difficult to believe. I had such respect for Robert. He left a great and positive impression on me. What a loss to our community. I guess he did what he came to earth to do and finished it rather quickly. He's happy at home on the other side, but I still need him here.

Our lives only came together a handful of times. He was even a judge for me at the 2006 Mr. MAL. I really had a blast with him at the Mr. Pittsburgh 2006 contest. He was a very busy man and lived far from me, but he was someone that I planned on being friends with for years to come.

Robert, in leather, I salute you! I love you,

My thoughts and prayers go out to Robert and his family and friends, and most of all to George his partner...

His Brothers at Hillside Campground will miss him and his generous spirit...
John Manwood

Robert made an impression on, and will be missed by many. RIP
William Palmer

you will be missed.

Robert, Bob...Bobby. I always got "the look" when I called him Bobby, but I got away with it. I knew Bob before he discovered himself. Before Rocky died and before my partner, Erik died. Bob was my support. We both knew what was in our future as far as losing our partners was concerned. After rocky died Bob was lost - but looking to discover himself. I am grateful he was able to be happy and have an effect on others. I will remember his smile and those soft eyes. Rest well. I love you.

SIR Robert, we miss you. You will forever be a role model for generations of leather men, women, boys & girls to come. The world could use more decent people such as you. All of us that had the pleasure to know you have been enriched by your friendship. I am sorry I only knew you for 6-7 years. Peace!

Sir,

I don't believe in goodbyes because i know that I will eventually see you again. Untill that day comes I will never be able to look at a Submarine Ship again without thinking of one of the best days of my life. You realy know how to make a person feel safe, loved and like they are important in the world just because they are!

Thank you sir for being an unconditional friend and inspiration in my life.

Your friend in life and thereafter,
Shawn Patrick

P.S. I miss your hugs so you are gonna owe me big, SIR! ;)

As i struggle to put down these words i think of and remember how You touched me Sir Robert. i got a chance to know You not only as a man to look up to, but a mentor and a great example of what pure heart and soul look and feel like in a Leatherman. You WILL be missed, but You WILL be remembered; for just being You. The lessons You taught are now Your legacy and with that and the traditions that i value i will not let them fade away. When i think of You, the word 'Heart' comes to mind as thats what i saw the moment i first met you in Club Phoenix. At that time i was a boy, with little direction trying to get his life together. The next memory is of You looking at me with approval as a boy WITH direction. That direction would not be possible without a good example and a couple lessons that i learned from You. i must thank You Sir. Though You are not here to hold, Your essence will be forever and eternal. Thank You Sir.

In Leather,
boy marshall

On behalf of my club brothers of COMMAND MC, Inc, I want to express our sincere sympathies and sadness for the sudden passing of one of our dear and favorite leather brothers from Maryland- Sir Robert Davis.

Bob always had a respective and admired presence here in Baltimore and throughout the Maryland Leather Community. As the International LeatherSir 2004, he brought pride to everyone here that knew him, knew of him or read about him...especially with his humanitarian commitments, his volunteer organizations and his leather leadership- he set the bar for others to emulate.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Bob's family, his leather brothers,sisters & family and those friends of Bob's who's hearts he touched and enriched in his very short life. He will be missed, but he will always live within our hearts and be not far from our memories...

In Leather Brotherhood,
Steve Cather
President
COMMAND MC, Inc.
Mr MD Leather 2005

In October of 2004 I met Sir Robert as we were competeing for our titles. When those first pictures were being taking of Robert, Ivan, and myself after we won, there was a point when he put his arm around me and pulled me in tight against him. Through the next 12 months he supported me and helped me when we were at events together, sent me notes to make sure I was taking care of myself when I got sick, and tortured me in anyway he could every chance he got.

My Daddy Shane turned me over to you for that year and you returned me not just in one piece but stronger then when we started. I owe you so much and I hope to repay that by following the path of love and respect that you laid out before our community.

You are forever my "Light of Love"
and
I am Always YOUR bootblack!

Cub Spencer
International Community Bootblack 2004

My Dearest Robert

Your light and love wil be so missed.
The sacrifices you made for others has changed the way I see people.
Yes, good does exist.
You and I had many long long talks that I will not soon forget.
Your humor and boisterous laugh will ring in my ears forever.
Rest well dear friend, watch over and guide us mortal few.
your devoted friend
Spanky

We didn't know Rob as LeatherSir or community activist or man of the year......we knew Rob as the ever-smiling, eveil glint in the eye, sweet and caring man who has brought to much joy and love into George's life and everyone he touched. Everyone in the Hillside Campground community is shocked and saddened by Rob's passing, and there are more prayers than you know being said for Rob and George and our "Cumalot" brothers by a group of people at camp as diverse as any other Rob had in his life, but which all knew him as the great guy he is.

On our personal level, we'll miss the hugs, the laughs and the bites, but most of all we'll miss the smiles.

With fond memories and love
from all of us "Village People",

Joe Ricci and Marco Thompson
Northeast Mr. Drummer 1994/"Lion's Den"

Bud Stacy
Mr. Hillside Leather 2006/"SanctuHairy"

Edward Van Campen/"Bunny Hollow"

Sir Robert you will be forever missed by your Club Phoenix Family, from the moment you became Maryland LeatherSir at the Phoenix on that sunny march day in 2004 you have touched and changed everyones lives. Your brothers and sister and family here will always remember your charm your wit your grace your humor and your lack of dancing skills. Our Brother your presence will forever be felt in our hearts.WeCELEBRATE YOUR LIFE!!!!

The Staff and Family of the Club Phoenix Baltimore

Even after the years of seeing or hearing of great men and dear friends passing before me I am truly saddened by the loss of Robert. A gallant, giving, and loving gentleman, who earned the true respect of a gentleman, and yes a leatherman a thousand times over.

God speed my friend, and hold a spot on that couch so I might join you again one day.

We will miss your smile, your support (of everything) and your love. We may have lost your physical body, but your spirit will live here forever.

Rest in Peace, Sir.
ButchLee & Buz (aka Michele Smith)

Robert,

You were not my Sir... I was not your boy, I was not your pup, you were not my master...You were not my sub nor would I even think to call myself your dom. We were equals. That was a concept at first you could not grasp, but grown to realize it was true-no holds barred love- with no expectations other then you being exactly who you really were when all the leather, floggers, bits, gags, spreader bars, cellophane were tossed off...

Those were all titles we shares between us on a whim and a twinkle of an eye. This is not disrespecting you, it is sharing with you and your family the level of love, trust and respect we shared. Two men so much in love to ignore sometimes artificial/rigid roles, and just be who we are with no barriers between us.

You'll never know the hurt in my heart when I found you. I hope what you'll feel now is the love of Rocky in your arms and your dad with his supportive hand on your shoulder.

My path is now tempertely divergent from yours, but all the powers that be willing, our paths will cross again and I'll get to share in the bliss you are now in. Make sure to keep my space warm and waiting.. And talk me up. You know how uncomfortable I could be around strangers,,,,,

I look forward to that day I get to meet Rocky and Dad! Those are some big shoes you’ve left me to fill.

Your Daddy Bear, George.

Sir Robert was an amazing man, and he will be greatly missed.

He was a great friend to the Deaf Community, supporting Sign Language interpreting for contests, and communicating directly with the Deaf Leather Community in American Sign Language.

Fair thee well, Good Sir! We carry you in our hearts!

I know that Robert is in a better place and does not make it any easier for the healing of those left behind. I send my best to everyone. He will truely be missed by all.

WELL I MET ROBERT IN 2004 WHEN HE WON MARYLAND SIR. HE WAS GREAT MAN TO KNOW AND LOVE. I HAD A GREAT TWO YEARS WITH HIM. HE WERE HIS HEART ON HIS SLEEVE. I REMEBER THE TIME HE CALLED ME UP AND SAID HEY CAN YOU DO A BENIFIT FOR ME I WAS HONOR. I ALSO WAS HONOR TO BE PART OF HIS FAMILY. ROBERT YO MAY BE GONE BUT IN MY HEART YOU WILL ALWAYS BE THERE.ROBERT YOU WILL BE GREATLY MISSED.

Over the past few days since receiving the news of Rob's death, many memories that we'd shared over the past five years have flooded my mind. Him helping me communicate with deaf friends at a contest. Our talks about 'what to do' with our boys and how to balance love and discipline. Bumping into one another at the baggage carousel in a far-away land while lugging leather-laden suitcases destined for yet another event on our crammed 04-05 calendar. Butting heads about how to groom and guide our leather contestants. Sharing resources so our fund raisers were a success. And most of all, looking me in the eyes on that September morning and telling me that I'd been his inspiration to selflessly come forth and give of himself to a leather brother. Forever humbled, I will always be indebted to Rob, not only for transforming my platform into reality but for altruistically giving of himself to alleviate human suffering through the gift of organ donation, my life's passion. Similarly, Rob has impacted countless other lives with acts of selflessness, compassion, commitment, honor and devotion through his fund raising efforts and community service.

My brother and my hero, forever you remain here with us, not only in the form of an awe-inspiring gift, but as cherished memories in the hearts of your friends, peers and loved ones. Clearly, it is we that have been blessed by having you a part of our lives.

"I miss your being
but I feel your presence,
In whatever form you choose to take,
however you now choose to be."
In Memory of You -- Kirsti A. Dyer, MD

"Some gave all"

Robert will forever live through the lives of those he touched; this is the truth of his immortality, honesty, and pure unconditional being. If you should find yourself in doubt, listen and you will hear the beat of his drum.

Carry on Sir.

Brothers Eternally
Tug and Brian

When I received the call that Bob had passed, I was in pure shock. I've known Bob for 20+ years, first meeting him at Deer Park Lodge in Hagerstown. He was rather shy and introverted. Over the years, we have shared many experiences. I sat with him many evenings when Rocky was first diagnosed with AIDS and was still in the hospital. Over the years, even though we may not see each other weekly, but we talked regularly. He was there to help me after the passing of my father and a break up after a long term relationship. He tried to get me out and about, taking me to the Eagle and to New Orleans over Mardi Gras. When I met my current partner, Jeremy, he took him aside to 'find out his intentions'....he was a true confident and friend. While our lives took us in different directions, we always remained part of the same 'family'. When I last talked to him, he had been sick with the flu.

He will be missed not only for his spirit of his convictions but as a friend I could depend on

Bob, until we meet again in the great beyond.....

All my love...John

You will be missed Sir by a/All.

Bob and I had been friends for more than 10 years. I knew Bob before his involvement in the leather community. I am so stunned to hear of his sudden death. Bob was a great guy, caring to everyone. I will miss him greatly.

My Love and condolence's to SIR Famliy and Frinds been in touch with his pup Diesel my love to all of you SIR, MASTER and DADDY and boy pup Slave

steve campbell
NW drummerboy 97
1st runner up to INT drummerboy 97

I am at loss of words on how to share my thoughts as I am still stunned about his sudden passing. But, here I am.

I had a pleasure to meet and know him. I never forget about his personality and especially his conservational ASL skills. I always enjoyed his sense of humor.

Robert, many thanks for your wonderful friendship and being supportive of the Deaf leather community as well. You will be sorely missed.

Danny Carbonell
International Mr. Deaf Leather 1998

Sir Robert was an amazing man. He was there when i won my first title, Atlantic Deaf Leatherboy 2004 and because i'm the first to win such a title, He reminded me of the importance of my role and gave me valuable advice. From that night on, W/we were friends. When i went on to win International Deaf Leatherboy 2005, he was right there, in the audience, cheering me on. Thank You for Your support, SIR! this boy appreciated it more than You ever knew.

He was a great friend to the Deaf Leather community -- all of us who knew Him are reeling in shock at His death. Sir Robert was well respected by all of us. His ability to talk to us in ASL was impressive -- He always made sure He introduced Himself to every single Deaf person around. He even attended a few of our bar nights at the Green Lantern in DC.

Sir Robert was a man of honor and integrity. W/we could all do well to learn by his example.

boy alex
International Deaf Leatherboy 2005
Atlantic Deaf Leatherboy 2004

I was shocked and feeling sad about Sir Robert...so young, handsome and strong!! I remember when I met him somewhere at BLADeaf, MAL or ABLF. Sir Robert used ASL by chatting with me. I was very impressed about him. I found that he strongly supported the Deaf leather community. I had met him few times and chatted with him. He certainly had a great sense of humor. I would hope to see him again, but now I sadly miss him.

Dennis Hart - Mr. Atlantic Deaf Leather 2000

No words will describe how we feel in the wake of our dear friend's departure from this world. His spirit, smile and love for all will go on in each of us. May we all remember Robert for the joy he continuously brought to our lives and the beauty he bestowed through our community and beyond.

With respect, Scott Jones "JONESY"
Mr. DC Eagle, 2005

"Life is pleasant. Death is peaceful. It's the transition that's troublesome." - Isacc Asimov

The Master’s Cover

The Master’s cover he so proudly wore,
The sash that lay across his chest.
Symbols of Leather, gone before,
Identified him as one of the best.

And yet this man was so much more,
Than words alone could ever say.
A proud example of the Leather he wore,
This man whose passing we mourn today.

A courageous choice that few would make,
With a grace and dignity few can understand.
He walked a path few would dare to take,
A selfless example of so special a man.

Amid heartfelt expressions of grief and sorrow,
You have gone from us now, to find your rest.
Though a little less complete will be our tomorrow,
By knowing you, we all were blessed.

Written by Caro, in Memoriam for Robert Davis, September 12, 2008

Sir Robert,

You will be soley missed not only by myself, my partner Michael Zito but by so many more lives that you touched in your own unique style. My/Our hearts are empty without your loving, selfless and giving spirit that reminds each and everyone of us what exactly a Leather person is and without having to leave behind our own identity.

I will miss that wonderful and beautiful smile of yours along with your laughter that seemed to have a calming effect when everything else just seemed hectic.

I love you my friend, my brother and I / we will truly miss you... you have and always will have a place in my/our heart.

Just know that Michael, I and others are thinking of you and will for a very long time to come.

Sir Chris 2006 ( Chris Hacker )

Sir Robert was a great leatherman and wonderful friend to many of us especially deaf leather community that he signs ASL with me. he was always touch by his charm and smile and personality... sure he will be missed...

bob donaldson
IMDL 92

SIR Robert has blessed so many of us in so many ways. What a pleasure it has been to be part of his life over these past years! There is a beautiful spirit and soul of his that will be with us every day! And now, has happily joined so many that have gone before him. SIR Robert has also been a reminder to me that I have a family, bigger and stronger, of which I belong. Thank you, SIR Robert!

We did not know Sir Robert personally however whenever someone from the leather community passes apart of our histroy and treadition passes with them. Someone passing always leaves a void but when that person is a leader and example for others the void becomes that much greater.

My you rest in peace my brother.

Sergeant Major & slave riches

Sir Robert was a guide and mentor to me during my title year. It grieves me to know that someone so compassionate and caring has passed from this world. He gave me advice, and comfort when I needed it. I regret that I could not have known him better.

I once saw a card that said, "It's not the end of one life, it's the beginning of another." May he continue to give the peace and love, guidance and support in his next life as he did in this one.

Eric Crouse
Mid-Atlantic Community Bootblack 2007.

In honor of Sir Robert Davis - while we did not have the privilege of knowing you personally, your legacy speaks volumes. Please watch over all of us in the Community as we all continue to work in your memory.

with utmost Respect,
Andy Liu
Stepen "boyshark" Mercer
Mid-Atlantic LeatherSIR / Leatherboy 2008

I'm so shocked that Robert is gone. I had been thinking about him often in the past week or so, wondering how he was doing because I hadn't talked to him in a long time. I figured I'd see him next at Mr. DC Eagle or MAL, and then I got this news.

Robert was such a wonderful friend to the Deaf leather community. I will never forget the presentation he made at IDL 2005, when he got up on stage and declined an interpreter, choosing to use ASL to say what the evening meant to him.

Such a strong, wonderful man! The leather community, and the local gay community, has indeed lost one of its shining stars.

Godspeed to you My Leather Brother. You will truly be missed. Thank you for your kindness and amazing work for our community.

Sir Robert Davis...it is hard to write the word "was" in relation to him...we who knew him are tremendously blessed. His strength, vulnerability, integrity and passion make him, and our memories of him, an asset to us all. I just wish I could hug him, and feel his arms around me one more time.

Sir Robert was a man who i deeply admired and respected. His generosity of spirit and self was almost endless. Many will remember that towards the end of his International title year, he gave a kidney to help save Tug Taylor. In that light, i guess a little bit of him lives on. But in a larger way Robert continues to live in each of us who he inspired, mentored or in some way had a positive impact on our lives. If he inspired you...work to inspire others. If he mentored you...be a mentor for others. If he had an impact on you...aim to have an impact on others. To me that is the best way that we can honor his memory and ensure his legacy lives on.

In the LeatherSIR/Leatherboy family, we refer to our title predecessors as dads, grandads, etc and successors as sons, grandsons, etc. i guess yesterday, i lost a title cousin...but in reality i mourn because i have lost a brother.

In addition to being a great SIR, he was also a pup trainer. As a pup, i pay tribute to him:

HHHHOOOOOWWWWWWWLLLLLL!

Rest in Peace SIR!
david shorey - yell'rdawg
Sacramento Leatherboy 2002
Northern California Leatherboy 2002
Northern California Community Bootblack 2008

Robert,

Of the many people I met during my experience in the title universe, you are one of the few I call "Brother". The times and talks we shared were always "in the right moment" and I am forever grateful for what we shared.

May your eternal days be filled with as many blessings as you have bestowed upon us during your time in this world.

When one of our own falls, the sorrow is that much more poignant and difficult. Though we didn't get to know Sir Robert well in the short time we knew him, we were always struck by his sense on honor, integrity and desire to give back to his community above and beyond what any person would expect. His passing is a true loss to our Tribe. A quote comes to mind - I’ve found that I can tolerate being judged far better then being of no consequence - Spock - Sir Robert made a difference, was of consequence, mattered to a lot of people. Regardless of what opinions are, what criticisms are levied, Sir Robert had the courage to do what he thought was right.. For that he has our unending respect. We can ask no more of a man then to give from his heart. Sir Robert did that, and did it on a level that few others will ever achieve.

Rest in peace soldier.. your job is done, you will be missed.

In Leather,
Olivier Pratt - International LeatherSIR 2007
pup Sparky - International Leatherboy 2007

I had the great honour of judging Sir Robert when he competed for International LeatherSIR. He impressed me as a man of honour and integrity. This was more than confirmed by his actions and deeds subsequently. We have lost a true Leather Man and our community is weaker as a result. He will be truly missed by those whose lifes he touched during his all too brief time with us.

Master Peter Kincheloe
Chief Judge, Mr. Leatherman Toronto Competition
Director Emeritus, MLTC Inc.
Mama's Canadian Master

Family and Friends,

On behalf of Momma Connie, Hooker and boys, the Maryland family and myself, I want to say "THANK YOU" for your notes, emails and phone calls in our time of sorrow.

Robert will be missed by us, he touched so many people locally, regionally and nationally with his twisted humor, dry wit and kinky nature.

I know that I will miss hearing my first International LeatherSIR say " but Momma", when he would call to talk to me about things or when I would catch him doing something...

His devotion and physical presence in our communities will be forever missed. I know that my family will forever feel this loss.

In Leather serving the communities
Rik Newton-Treadway
Hooker and Boys
and
The Maryland Family
1999-2007

BALTIMORE, Md America - Thursday, September 11, 2008 at 19:56:04 (CDT)