Douglas Lee Farnham's Obituary
Big Rapids - Douglas Lee Farnham, 93, of Big Rapids, went to be with our Lord and heavenly family Saturday, August 6, 2022, due to complications from a fall.
He was born October 11, 1928, in Highland Park, MI, the son of Leroy Prescott (Dusty) and Lucille (Magnusson) Farnham.
Douglas started his service to his country very young, as a cub scout, then a boy scout, and safety patrol. As a young teen he was a merchant marine on the BobLow Boat between Detroit and Canada. While attending Denby High School he was a captain in the R.O.T.C. program and received his diploma in three years so he could join the army. Douglas enlisted at the age of 16, and served with the 504th Airborne Infantry Regiment of the 82nd Airborne Division where he performed the duties of artist with various military projects. As part of the Airborne section, he received physical training and instruction on parachute jumping and packing. After three years he became active in the reserve, 84th Airborne, Lincoln Division in Detroit. For two years he was recalled for the Korean mission, to the 82nd Airborne Division where he served as medic. For completing 32 jumps he received Jump Master status and a star over his jump wings. He also received the WWII victory medal and one for his expert marksmanship on eight infantry weapons.
After his service to his country Douglas attended Wayne State University, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, majoring in Industrial Design. In November of 1955, he married Lillian Elisabeth Justice.
Douglas worked as a technical illustrator for several years at Lincoln-Mercury and Chrysler Engineering. In 1961, he was offered to create a two-year associate degree program at Ferris Institute, and developed the Technical Illustration Program, which he taught for 28 years. While teaching he earned his Masters degree from the University of Michigan.
Douglas was a member of the Society of Illustrators for over 30 years, and a member of the American Legion - always proud of his service to his country. He was also a long-time member of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church. Douglas had a private pilot license and scuba certification. All these things had a decisive impact on his painting. He enjoyed making many signs, posters, artworks, and teaching youth. Douglas saw himself as "an ol' soldier on standby to serve God, family, country, and his community". His paintings are his memorial.
Douglas is survived by his son Lee (Joann) Farnham of Climax, MI; his daughter Kimberly (Kevin) Westgate of Big Rapids; grandchildren, Trenton Farnham and Kristina (Matt) Baas; sister Nancy O'Neil of El Paso, TX; brother William (Jo) Farnham of Rushville, NY; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Lillian, in 2010, and brother-in-law Don O'Neil.
There will be a graveside service on his 94th birthday, at 1:00 p.m., October 11, 2022, at Highland View Cemetery where he will be laid to rest next to his wife Lillian. Memorial contributions in his name may be made for Mecosta County Meals on Wheels. Care and arrangements are entrusted to the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Share a memory or express condolences at mohnkefuneralhome.com.
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