Obituary: Kenneth C. Farnsworth, Jr.

Kenneth C. Farnsworth, Jr. 1945 ~ 2006 One of this life's genuinely good guys departed our company June 29, 2006 as a result of hepatocellular carcinoma. He was 61 years of age. Ken was at home with his wife, Christell, and a few close friends when that time arrived and his passing will leave a huge void in the lives of surviving family members, many close friends, concerned neighbors and a wide range of firm friendships developed during his professional career. Ken was born in Salt Lake City April 12, 1945 to Mildred Lora Brown and Kenneth Charles Farnsworth, both of whom are deceased. He was educated in Salt Lake City schools, and was a graduate of South High School and University of Utah where he was awarded a B.S. in Political Science and a B.A. in Geography. From 1969 through 1971 Ken served honorably for the LDS Church in the French/Belgian mission and has on several occasions returned to France to rekindle fluency in the language and enjoy wonderful French cuisine. As recently as October 2005, he and Christell traveled with friends through France, using Paris as their base. In 1971 Ken embarked on a career which followed a veritable family tradition - he joined the Salt Lake City Police Department, just as his father, grandfather and two uncles had done before him, and during a 20 year career held a wide variety of positions and completed many successful investigations. He worked various assignments including the Detective Division, the Swat Team and while in the Homicide Division was one of the principal investigators who solved the Mark Hofmann bombings in 1985. In 1991 Ken left the Police Department and became an investigator for the Utah State Medical Examiner. In 1995 he joined the Utah Attorney General's Office where he conducted environmental enquires but with his wide background in law enforcement his skills were used in many areas. Early in his career of public service Ken realized that tact, courtesy and good manners were essential ingredients in dealing with people and over the years he polished these attributes to their highest level. Everyone who ever met Ken, from a distinguished government official to a suspect in a criminal investigation, all came away feeling they had received his respect and had been graciously treated. And the same holds true for his many friends in all walks of life: in his academic pursuits, public service endeavors, companions in outdoor activities, and neighbors in the Gilmer Park area. It is safe to say Ken enjoyed making friends and it is also true that he went to great lengths to maintain those friendships and to "keep in touch". Typical of his love for creatures great and small, he leaves behind his dog, whom he found caught in a trap resulting in the loss of her leg, now known as "Trapper". Ken is survived by his wife, Christell; step-mother-in-law, Helen West; sisters, Pat Heller, Linda (Jerry) Stocking; brother, Bill (Lori) Farnsworth; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents; and sister-in-law, Katy Farnsworth. The family wishes to thank the LDS Hospital staff, Drs. Prystas and Blatter for their expertise and Dr. Jim Pearl for his passion, friendship and dedicated care. In lieu of flowers, Ken wished donations to be given to the charity or organization of your choice. A memorial service and celebration of his life will be announced at a later date. Email condolences or requests for further information to ken.farnsworth@att.net Au revoir my love.