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here were many titles that could have been attributed to longtime Riverside resident Don Farnham, who died Feb. 9 at the age of 94. He was a man who served his country during World War II, he was an Emmy winning cameraman, and he was a person who served his community in many ways – including as a member in good standing in the Lions Club.
He was also a devoted family man, and that is how I first met Don Farnham.
The Farnhams and the Koseys first became acquainted through our daughters, their Molly and our Tina. The girls were classmates at Hauser and soon became teammates playing softball.
While the girls were at RB, they played softball — and very well, I might add. Our families and others were on hand to cheer the team. Don always was ready with his camera. Not only did we have a good team, we had an award-winning cameraman.
I remember during one important game Tina was up. It was a crucial play and I closed my eyes, waiting for whatever would happen, until someone yelled, “She’s safe!” I opened my eyes to see Don with the camera on me, laughing. Yes, we can always see the replay, thanks to Don.
When Riverside began to televise the July 4 parade, it was Don Farnham who had a seat near the camera truck making sure all went well. Don knew I always wanted to host the parade live and he made it possible for me, first with Dave Moravecek and now with Jacob Palka. He gave me a smile the first time Dave and I went on air.
Don Farnham brought a lot to Riverside and left the village with a lot for which we can all be thankful, whether we knew him or not. In the last few years he put his camera down, but he remained proud of his military service with the Marines on Iwo Jima.
He remained active as long as his health allowed, attending Memorial Day services and Veterans Day programs. You could usually see him accompanied by Molly – yes, the one who played softball. You can hear Don Farnham’s story in his own words on the Riverside TV series “Riverside Memories” at riversidetv.us.
This time, the cameraman was on the other side of the camera, giving an award-winning remembrance. Thanks for everything, Don.
Glad to have known you, and that’s a wrap.
