Kenneth Bruce Farnum

Kenneth Bruce Farnum, 78, of Watrousville, Michigan, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2026, at the Tuscola County Medical Care Facility. Ken was born on August 9, 1948, in Caro, Michigan, to John and Imogene (Streeter) Farnum.

Ken proudly served in the United States Navy from August 16, 1969, to May 22, 1973. He served aboard the USS Saint Paul as a Marine Mechanic and served during the Vietnam War. His military service was recognized with several medals and commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Korea Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross, Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Medal, First Class, and Good Conduct Medal. His service to his country remains an important part of his legacy.

Following his military service, Ken made his career as a diesel mechanic, working for Mack Truck in Garden City, Michigan, before eventually retiring from a small repair shop in Wolverine, Michigan. His mechanical abilities and lifelong love of working on vehicles were reflected in both his career and his personal interests. Ken was also actively involved in his community and served as president of the Jaycees of Garden City. This leadership role was another part of his life and the contributions he made beyond his work and military service.

Ken had a lifelong love of cars and especially enjoyed working on them. He also had a special gift for making people laugh and bringing happiness to those around him. Ken had a way of bringing laughter into a room and making ordinary moments a little more enjoyable. Those who knew him will fondly remember his familiar expression, “Woo wee!”—a little phrase that was uniquely Ken and that will bring smiles and treasured memories for years to come.

Ken is survived by his daughter, Kristen (Dan) Cox; his grandchildren, Katrina Cox and Dominic Cox; and his grandsons, John Farnum, Brady Farnum, and Victor Farnum. He is also survived by his siblings, John (Judy) Farnum, Maryellen Campeau, Dennis (Sandy) McCrumb, Terrie McTaggart, Eric (Shelli) Farnum, Brenda Wachner, and Sandra (James) Richmond; and his brother-in-law, Max Schafsnitz.

Those who preceded Ken in death include his parents, John and Imogene (Streeter) Farnum; his stepmother, Ella Mae (McCrumb) Farnum; his son, Kenneth Farnum; his sister, Veronica (Farnum) Schafsnitz; his nephews, Brian Campeau and Brandon DeWyse; and his brothers-in-law, Richard Campeau, Tim Carlisle, Randy Wachner, and Ken DeWyse.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the Tuscola County, Medical Care Facility for the care, kindness, and compassion they showed Ken throughout his 14 years there. Their dedication, patience, and support over the years meant so much, and the family is sincerely grateful to everyone who cared for Ken and became a part of his life. Ken will be remembered for his love of family, his passion for working on cars, his service to his country, and the laughter and happiness he brought to those around him. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.