Jay – Michael David Farnum, 73, a resident of Jay passed away Friday, December 3rd at his residence. He was born August 21, 1948 in Lewiston, the son of Harold E. Farnum and Margaret L. (Card) Farnum. He attended school at Edward Little in Auburn. He proudly served in the U.S. Marines and fought for his country in Vietnam. Through the years, Michael worked in the roofing and siding industry. He enjoyed working with his hands. He did string art that was displayed at the Holiday Inn in Augusta for a time. He owned his own stained glass studio, completing commissioned work from Cote Ice Cream and some church windows. He loved the ocean. He spent time clamming, and scuba diving. He would bring large snails and starfish up for his daughters to see, returning them to the sea shortly afterwards. Michael also loved fishing, especially cat fishing by lantern at night. Michael was known when he was younger as Irish Mike, and would dance an Irish jig to entertain friends. Michael loved animals. Notably, his daughters remember him having an iguana, a red macaw, a large black Newfoundland dog, and most recently was looking forward to having a tortoise. Michael was always willing to stop and help a person broken down, able to take apart a car and put it back together.
Forest (Ted) remembers deep sea fishing with Michael and friends. They were the only two not seasick in the choppy water. They sat at the front of the boat, having a great time and catching many fish.
Jacquelyn remembers fondly that he almost always spoke to her about scuba diving and fishing. Jackie pursued a career in nursing, following dad's footsteps to help others.
Rebecca remembers that he once took his youngest three daughters camping on an island off the coast of Maine for the night, driving his own boat. Becky received her ability to excel at many crafts and fine detailed tasks from him.
Katherine remembers working on a stained glass piece, a raccoon that she still has. She remembers the sounds, and smells, and helped to wrap the individual pieces with the copper foil for soldering. It has been said that Daddy's exotic mindset always expresses itself in Kathy.
Kimberly remembers bringing his first grandchild for him to meet in Connecticut. She remembers he would always give her a giant bear hug, picking her up and twirling her around in the air. Kim inherited his love of automotives.
He is survived by his daughters Jacquelyn Gonzalez, Rebecca Burns, Katherine Sinhawk and Kimberly Ludlow, his brothers Ted (Forest) Farnum of Jay and Dennis (Harold) Farnum of Sebago, and an aunt Tanya Sakowski of Connecticut. He had seven grandchildren, Matthew, Andrew, Kyla Kaden, Camron, Liam, and Violet, and one great grandchild Xerenity. He has many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Michael loved his family very much and was especially close to Kimberly and Ted.
He was predeceased by his parents and one niece
Messages of condolence may be sent to: www.finleyfuneralhome.com
Farnum – Michael David, 73 of Jay, Maine passed away December 3, 2021.
A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held at a later date.
Arrangements by FINLEY FUNERAL HOME, 15 Church Street, Livermore Falls, Maine.