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Charles Richard (Dick) Farnsworth

July 30, 2012

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Charles Richard (Dick) Farnsworth passed away early on July 30, 2012 in Salmon Arm. He was born December 26, 1930 in Vancouver, BC. Predeceased by his wife of 23 years, Barbara, in 1981. He is survived by his partner Judith Anne Stringer and her daughters Shannon (Larry) of New York and Sheila (Bruce) of Kelowna, six grandchildren and very special friends, Bob and Vi Rutherford, Gloria Schindel and Jeanie York. Dick and Judy retired to the Shuswap in 1985. Their annual golf tournament, Grey Cup gathering and Dick’s birthday parties on Dec. 26th were great fun.

Dick served for two years in the 102nd Coast Artillery Regiment (reserve) attaining the rank of Bombardier. Dick started his career in 1947, as an advertising production clerk at the Vancouver News Herald. He progressed to positions in advertising at Mc & Mc Hardware Ltd. and at McConnell, Eastman Advertising Agency. In 1956, he became the first Director of Public Relations, Workmen’s Compensation Board. From 1973 to 1983, he was the Director of Public Relations, United Way of the Lower Mainland. During his retirement, he was a Case Counsellor for the Business Development Bank of Canada. Dick served on a number of community organizations and committees, including Sunset Memorial Community Association, Vancouver Junior Chamber of Commerce, Public Relations Society of B.C., Canadian Speech Association, Men’s Canadian Club, B.C. Safety Council, Canada Get-Together Unity Celebration, Sorrento Volunteer Fire Department, Sorrento Lions Club, Seniors’ Foundation of B.C., Canadian Cancer Society and B.C. Lions Society for Children with Disabilities. Dick had a passion for golf, hunting, fishing and classical music. He was a great fan of Marshall McLuhan, the Canadian communications guru. Dick recently completed “About Then”, his memories of growing up in the West End of Vancouver in the 1930’s.

Many thanks for Dick’s care by Dr. G. McCallum, the staff at Shuswap Lake General Hospital and Piccadilly Care and to all his friends who visited him during his last weeks. All cookies, coffee, Tim Bits, cherries and stories were treasured. A gathering for friends and family will be held at a later date. Memorial donations in Dick’s name may be made to the Nature Trust of British Columbia.

Arrangements entrusted to FISCHER’S FUNERAL SERVICES & CREMATORIUM LTD., Salmon Arm (250) 833-1129. EMAIL condolences and share memories at www.fischersfuneralservices.com.



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