J. Scott Davis

Dr. Scott Davis, beloved husband, father, grandfather, veterinarian, and friend, passed away July 9, 2026 surrounded by the love of family and the countless lives he touched throughout his remarkable life.

Scott was born in 1954 in Vinton, Iowa, and moved with his family to Cedar Falls at a young age. It was there that he grew up, developing the curiosity, humor, and compassion that would define him for the rest of his life.

He attended Iowa State University, where he initially pursued mathematics before realizing that his true calling was working with animals. His love for animals led him to veterinary medicine, and he went on to earn his veterinary degree from Iowa State, beginning a career that would span more than four decades.

In 1981, Scott and his wife, Doreen, moved to Oregon for what they thought would be a temporary adventure. Early in his career, Scott worked as a large-animal veterinarian, often receiving calls in the middle of the night to help with calving and other farm emergencies. While he valued that work, his passion for caring for dogs and cats ultimately led him to pursue small-animal medicine. Before long, Oregon felt like home. With its mild weather, green landscapes, and freedom from Iowa's snowy winters and muggy summers, Scott and Doreen decided they had found the place where they wanted to build their lives.

Driven by his desire to focus on small-animal care, Scott purchased Vista Pet Hospital and became its sole veterinarian. For more than 40 years, he cared for generations of dogs, cats, rabbits, rats, and countless other beloved pets who came through the clinic doors. To his clients, he was far more than a veterinarian; he was a trusted partner, a source of reassurance, and a genuine friend. Whether comforting worried pet owners or caring for animals through illness and recovery, Scott approached every patient with kindness, patience, and unwavering dedication.

Many who knew him believed he was a true animal whisperer. He shared a special connection with animals that was unmistakable—an innate ability to earn their trust, calm their fears, and understand them in a way that seemed almost effortless.

Outside of work, Scott found joy in many pursuits. He loved golfing, playing guitar, listening to music, and taking long walks to explore whatever neighborhood he happened to be in. He had a wonderful sense of humor and delighted in telling perfectly awful jokes, keeping family, friends, and coworkers laughing and rolling their eyes in equal measure.

Above all else, Scott loved his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Doreen; his daughter, Ali; and his cherished granddaughter, Sydney. Becoming a father and later a grandfather were among the greatest joys of his life. He adored Sydney and was endlessly excited to be her grampy, taking pride in every milestone, adventure, and accomplishment. The love he had for his family was steady, unconditional, and at the center of everything he did.

Scott leaves behind a legacy of compassion, service, humor, and love. Through the thousands of animals he cared for, the families he comforted, and the people fortunate enough to know him, his impact will continue to be felt for generations.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, please donate to Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp, Special Olympics Oregon, or your favorite local animal rescue in honor of Scott.