Richard William Farrell

Published in Syracuse Post Standard on January 9, 2010

Richard William Farrell, 91, of Liverpool (formerly of Norfolk, NY), died January 8 at Crouse Hospital. He was born March 20, 1918, the third of five children of Patrick and Julia Farrell in Johnstown, NY.

He graduated from Clarkson College and St. Lawrence University. He was a tremendous athlete, playing college and minor league baseball, football and basketball before the war.

He joined the Army Air Force in 1941, where he served as a bombardier/ navigator, rising to the rank of lieutenant. He married Frances Oblak December 7, 1944, raised three children and recently celebrated their 65th anniversary.

In the course of his working career, he served as an administrator in several school districts throughout New York state, retiring as the principal of Massena CHS. He also owned the Adirondack and Grantville tree farms.

He served his communities in many ways, including as a Rotarian, and was a life member of the Elks. He was very active politically, serving in various capacities, including chairman of the St. Lawrence County Democratic Committee.

In retirement, he and his wife traveled extensively, bringing back many pictures and memories from around the world.

He is survived by his wife, Frances of Liverpool; his children, Kathleen Farrell of Liverpool, Patrick (Susan) Farrell of Los Altos, CA, and Jim (Christine) Farrell of Liverpool; three grandchildren, Sarah, Kate and Patrick; as well as his brother, Robert. He was predeceased by his sisters, Rita and Jean, and brother, Jack.

Calling hours will be 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, January 10, 2009, at Maurer Funeral Home, 300 Second St., Liverpool, with a memorial service to follow the calling hours. Interment will be in Liverpool Cemetery.

The family wishes to thank the staff of 4 South at Crouse Hospital for their thoughtful and caring help and support. The family also wishes to thank the staff of Hospice of CNY, whose commitment to the patient and family made the last few months of his life so much better than it would have been otherwise.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Hospice of CNY, 990 Seventh North Street, Liverpool, NY 13088.

Maurer Funeral Home, Inc. www.maurerfuneralhome.com