Willis R. Farnum

Willis Russell Farnum, age 88 of Pigeon, died peacefully on May 21, 2014 at his home at the Rose Garden Assisted Living, while under hospice care.

He was born September 27, 1925 in Owendale, and was the only child of the late John "Jack" and Daisy (Smith) Farnum. Willis graduated from Owendale High School in 1941, after which he served in the European Theater with the U.S. Army for four years during WWII. He was a very proud veteran, and was a member of the VFW Post 2236 in Pigeon. Upon discharge from the service, he returned to Owendale and was employed there at Automotive Industries as a foreman.

On June 17, 1950 he was united in marriage to Jessie June Winchester at Gagetown, Michigan, and they have celebrated almost 64 years of marriage. Willis and June made their home in Owendale until moving to the Rose Garden in 2011 due to health reasons.

Willis and his father operated the Peoples Oil & Gas Shell station in Owendale, where he was always the "friendly fuel oil delivery man" to many families and homes. Upon the closing of the service station he was employed at Marlette Homes until their closing. He then became the first bus driver for the newly established Thumb Area Transit in 1981, where he was employed until his retirement in 1986. He proudly served as past Mayor and a member of the Council for the Village of Owendale, and also as a member of the Fire Department for 50 years. Willis enjoyed bowling on a team for many years, playing his guitar and harmonica, and singing. He attended Elkton Missionary Church.

Willis is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, June; children, Gloria (Jerry) Laughlin of Caseville, Darwin (Kimberly) Farnum of Gilbert, Arizona, and "foster daughter" Bonnie Perry of Bad Axe; grandchildren, Jessica and Nicholas Farnum of Arizona; brother-in-law, Jerry Winchester of Cass City; and many nieces and nephews.

The funeral service will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 27, 2014 at the Elkton Missionary Church, with Rev. Stewart Justin officiating. Burial with military honors will take place following the service at Grant Township Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to Elkton Missionary Church or the family discretionary fund.

The family extends their sincere thanks to Hospice Advantage for the care given to Willis during his final days, and especially to the wonderful staff at the Rose Garden for the loving care and support to Willis and June. You all are truly like members of our family.

VISITATION AT MEYERSIECK-BUSSEMA FUNERAL HOME, PIGEON:
Monday, May 26 1-8 p.m.
AND AT ELKTON MISSIONARY CHURCH:
Tuesday, May 27 10:00 a.m. until the service at 11 a.m.