Michael Farmer

Michael "Weymouth" Farmer, 69, passed away Sunday, October 30, 2016, in Olathe, KS, surrounded by his loved ones.

Michael was born on February 11, 1947, in Washington D.C., to Joseph and Evalena (Horton) Farmer. Michael's family moved to Kansas City when he was quite young. He graduated in 1965 from Washington High School. He continued his education at the University of Kansas as a Summerfield Scholar. While attending KU in 1968 he met Clara "Lanette" Bontrager. They married later that year. After graduating with a triple major in English, Psychology and History, Michael continued his education in Art History and taught Western Civilization at KU. In July of 1977, while halfway through law school, he lost over 97% of his vision in a roofing accident. Michael went on to receive his Juris Doctorate through Washburn University in 1980. In Topeka he practiced law for many years and then transitioned to writing and teaching part time. Michael and Lanette ended their marriage in 2004 but remained dear friends. Michael then met and married Judith (McConnell) Farmer.

Michael was a man of many interests and talents. He practiced martial arts and attained a brown belt in Karate. He learned to speak French. He was an avid KU Basketball fan and knew all that there was to know about Ian Flemings' James Bond series. He was fiercely passionate about politics and would seize every opportunity to discuss political beliefs. His commitments to the planet, to its politics and to its people were exemplified not just by the content of his discussions but by his everyday actions. He carried the peace torch in Lawrence, KS during the Peace Torch Marathon of 1967. He protested the Vietnam War, canvassed during election seasons and, as any who have met him may attest, he took every opportunity to discuss politics and made a true effort to help people to see things the way that he believed was just.

Michael was passionate about traveling the world. He frequented England and Belize but also went to India, Jamaica, Ireland, Jamaica and to numerous other locations. Prior to meeting Judith, Michael completed a life goal and took a 3-month trip to Europe. He spent time in Paris, Rome, Barcelona and Madrid, among other destinations. He took that trip by himself.

Michael enjoyed camping, gardening and trying new restaurants and foods. He sought to discover everything which life had to offer and his thirst for knowledge knew no bounds. Michael was a loving and devoted father, husband, sibling and grandfather. His commitment to his loved ones was firm and unwavering. He was truly loved. He is already and will always be greatly missed.

He is survived by his three children, Miranda (Elaine) Farmer, Kelly (Sean) Farmer and Katie Farmer as well as his three step children Jennifer Falk (Kyle) Crumbaugh, William (Christine) Falk, and Matthew (Elizabeth) Falk; four grandchildren, Quintin, Blakely, Kennley, and Cameron; his wives Clara Lanette Farmer and Judith McConnell-Farmer; and siblings, James Farmer, Janice Farmer, and Joseph Farmer.

Michael was preceded in death by parents; and sister, Deirdra "De De" Roy.

A gathering of remembrance for Michael will take place from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM on Sunday, November 13, 2016, at Penwell-Gabel, Mid-Town Chapel, 1321 SW 10th Avenue, Topeka, KS. A rosary will be prayed at 1:00 PM, followed at 1:30 by music and words from his family. Family and friends are encouraged to share memories or to say a few words before the gathering comes to a close.

Michael's wishes were to be scattered amongst the Konza Prairie in Manhattan, KS, in Lanette's rose garden, and in the garden where he often sat with Judith in Oxford, England and Belize, Central America.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Michael Farmer Memorial Fund c/o Azure Credit Union, 610 SW 10th Avenue, Topeka, KS 66612.