Michael Eugene Davis, Jr., known lovingly as Pooka to his family and Gorilla Hogg to his friends, passed away on April 12, 2025, in Tacoma, Washington, at the age of 48. Born on January 3, 1977, in Bloomington, Illinois, Michael was a beloved son, brother, father, uncle, cousin, and friend. His warmth, humor, and unforgettable spirit touched the lives of many.
Michael was the cherished son of Crystal Cameron Oriste and the late Michael Eugene Davis, Sr. He was a proud and loving father to Nikko Borrero, Khalil Grismore, Xander Grismore, and Tevin Hoye. Though life sometimes kept him at a distance, his love for his children was deep, real, and unwavering.
He is survived by his siblings, Cher Fuller (Stan), Recie Matson (Keith), and Luis Lopez-Hopkins; his nieces and nephews, MaKaylah Matson, Aleiya Fuller, Kashmere Matson, Patience Lopez-Hopkins, and Honesty Lopez-Hopkins; and his great-nieces and nephews, Ka’Mari Matson, Kingston Matson, Ka’Mayah Matson, and Amara Lopez-Hopkins.
Michael is also remembered with love by his grandmothers, Doris J. Shaw of St. Louis, Missouri, and Beatrice Grismore of Bloomington, Illinois.
He now rests alongside his cousins, Seneca E. Hopkins and Sean E. Butcher, who were more like brothers to him and held a special place in his heart.
Michael’s extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends were a vital part of his life. His male cousins especially looked up to him—for his strength, his presence, and his unwavering loyalty.
Unbeknown to most, and in true Pooka fashion, he quietly achieved an important goal just two months before his passing—he graduated from Bates Technical College, completed the Media Production and Communication program, and earned his Associate in Applied Science degree. The commencement board will honor Pooka during their graduation ceremony this summer. This recognition reflects his determination, creative spirit, and the vision he had for his life.
Pooka was known for his infectious smile, booming laugh, and the kind of presence that lit up a room. He made those around him feel seen, valued, and loved. Whether you knew him as Michael, Pooka, or Gorilla Hogg, one thing was always true—he was real, he stood up for his people, and he led with love.
Though his time with us was far too short, the legacy he leaves behind—of love, laughter, and connection—will live on through his children, his family, and all of us who carry his memory in our hearts
I HAVE NEVER HAD HURT THE WAY I HAVE THIS PAIN. MY BIG BRO MEANT SO MUCH TO ME. I AM SO SAD HE IS NOT HERE IN FLESH, TRYING TO MAKE PEACE WITH IT ALL IS NOT EASY. I FEEL BRO WITH ME, AND HAVE NO DOUBT THAT WITH ME IS WHERE HE WANTS TO BE. I WILL KEEP HIS MEMORIES ALIVE; UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN, BIG BRO!! I LOVE YOU
Our family will never be the same ! Hearing Kaylah Kay just doesn’t hit the same. You are truly loved and truly missed and in our thoughts every day. Love you uncle ! Long Live Gorilla Hogg !
Michael was a Big presence in our family…everywhere he went, I suppose…😊 But, to me, his Auntie, he was Pooka and he would come with a big mans hug, and a little boy Pooks voice.. he giggled and laughed every time I saw him. I will miss that laugh.
I know he had some hard times in life, but he didn’t always show that part. He can now rest peacefully in Jehovah God’s memory and in the promise of a new world resurrection.
💜 Auntie Avie