Memories of Marc Davis
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Just a few days ago, I was standing in front of Pirates of the Caribbean. Even after thirty-two years, it is still one of the best theme park attractions ever built. I thought about Marc and Alice Davis, and wondered about Marc's health. Marc lived a long and apparently full life, touching the hearts of billions of people. Even though his death did not come as a shock, it still came as a blow. It is truly the end of an era in Disney, theme park, and animation circles.

One of the most influential people in twentieth century entertainment, Mr. Davis was arguably the biggest creative contributor to pre-Eisner Disney without Disney as his surname. Many of the most well-known Disney animated characters were given life through Davis' talents. Some of the best Disney theme park attractions relied heavily on his contributions. More than just a Disney Legend, Davis was one of the Nine Old Men of Disney, a group that is now down to three survivors.

He certainly touched my life. I had met Mr. Davis many times at various Disney events, and was fortunate enough to see him at a special Disneyland cast member exclusive presentation. There, he and Bill Justice showed slides of various concepts, sketches, and pictures, sharing anecdotes that related to Disney history. With simply a light chuckle at one of his own drawings, he evoked laughs from the fixated audience.

Known as a colorful, opinionated interview, Mr. Davis appeared to be eager to discuss his work for Disney and his interaction with Walt, appearing in such enthusiast publications such as Theme Park Adventure Magazine and The 'E' Ticket.

Marc Davis was more than an animator, an illustrator, or an Imagineer. He was a legend, not just a Disney Legend. Just like with Walt, we'll never see the likes of him again.

This is a truly poignant moment for me. Marc Davis, without me even knowing it, influenced my childhood and helped inspire my ability to dream, create   and wonder.
 
Only as an adult did I come to understand this genius story sketched much of Bambi's key scenes....
 
He animated on Walt's favorite moment ever, Cinderella getting her wish from the fairy godmother....
 
Not to mention his pivotal role playing both female leads in my favorite film... Sleeping Beauty. 
 
That alone would make him a legend (and that's leaving out an awful lot of work at the Studio).
 
Then there was his OTHER Disney career... as one of the first, and most influential Imagineers. 
 
Anyone who has ever sailed It's a Small World, Plunged into the Pirates of the Caribbean, or Walked into the DEAD center of the Haunted Mansion has felt his unique touch indelibly.
 
Marc turned  Tiki Birds into Enchanting entertainers, let America Sing, and made Country BEARable.
 
He showed us even when Cruising the Jungle, it's okay to have a corny sense of humor.
 
Those not aware of his NON-Disney life should also check out his website: http://www.marcdavis.com
 
Marc's talent, in a great many fields, is irreplaceable.
 
My heart goes out to his charming wife, Alice.