Roger Dean Farnam Obituary (2024)

Roger Dean Farnam was born at Madigan Army Hospital, Fort Lewis, Tacoma, Washington. He lived in Lakewood, Washington for two years, then two more years in John Day, Oregon. His family settled in Yakima, Washington in 1959, where he has lived ever since. Due to a birth defect, he quickly became strong in will and character. He didnt feel he had a disability, he just moved differently than most people. Roger had many adventures and misadventures, and he would tell long tales about all of them. He enjoyed all aspects of nature, just being outside, and soaking everything in. He loved deer and elk hunting, fishing, bird hunting, winter campouts, and having bonfires along his creek. He played slow-pitch softball for many years. He was a good pitcher and a fair hitter. "Roger Rule" allowed him to have a pitch runner when he got on base. The best part of all his activities was sharing laughs with good friends and family. Roger went to school at Nob Hill Elementary, Wilson Jr. High School, Davis High School, Evergreen State College (Olympia), and Central Washington University (Ellensburg). He was educated in academics and learned in life. He chose to be an English teacher for the Yakima School District, working many years at Davis Sr. High. Often ex-students would stop him on the street, in stores and in restaurants to share how much they liked having him for their teacher. He would often speak of his favorite "success stories," some getting scholarships, some learning to count change, or to read a clock. Roger had a close relationship with his Farnam cousins, spending wonderful times around LaGrande, Oregon. Pete and Julie (with Nat, Skye and Arie), Tom and Liz helped share and shape his world view and love of life. Roger is preceded in death by his mother, Barbara, and his little brother, Michael. He is survived by his father, Keith, his sister, Alison, his son, Calvin, his niece, Kimberly, and his nephew, J. R. Roger was a joy to be with for many and a thorn in the side for some. He smiled, and laughed, and enjoyed it all. Roger was a fighter since birth but lost to an aggressive cancer. He was soothed by the caring staff from Memorial Home and Hospice Care and those at Cottage in the Meadow. No services are planned. Shaw & Sons Funeral Home is caring for the family. Memories and condolences can be shared at www.shawandsons.com.