James E. Farmer, Sr. (Jim), 78, of Oregon, passed away on Thursday, May 2, 2024. He was born on January 17, 1946 to Willie (Stafford) and Everett Farmer. He was lovingly raised by his mom and dad, Edward and Josephine Fischer.
Jim retired from the Illinois Department of Corrections, where he worked as a corrections officer in Dixon, IL. He was a proud Veteran, having served in the Vietnam War for the United States Navy. He was a life member of the VFW and American Legion, and he frequently served in the Honor Guard for his fellow veterans. He loved telling stories and there was never a dull moment when Jim was around. His kind heart could be witnessed every time a stray cat wandered up the driveway. They had a loving home from that day forward, and they could often be found following him through the barn or riding with him on his Kawasaki Mule. He loved playing ping pong with friends and treasured family time with his wife, his children and his grandchildren. Jim had a smile for everyone and when asked how he was, his reply was always, “I’m happy as a lark.” He will be greatly missed.
He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Rosemarie Farmer (Iozzo Miller); son James Jr. (Valerie); daughters Jennie (Blaise) Garmon and Julie (Matthew) Stein; step-daughters Gina (Dave) Highland-Davidson and Michelle Miller Malenke; grandchildren Nicholas, Mitchell, Cody, Haley, Gunnar, Gianna, Alyssa, Brockton and Grant; great-grandchildren Isabella and Hugh; and sister Marianne (Mike) Paris.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, and sister and brother-in-law, Bonnie and Jerry Howland.
Condolences may be sent to pffh.condolences@gmail.com.
