Farnum Elwood White, 90, "slipped the surly bonds of earth and danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings," when he passed away in Salt Lake City on December 12, 2014, following a short illness. He was born October 6, 1924, in Peoria, Illinois to his parents, Alfred Leon White and Fardonna AnnJanette Doty. He married the love of his life, Dorothy Jane Russell on December 5, 1945 in the Salt Lake Temple. Farnum worked for the State of Utah Department of Agriculture until he retired.
Farnum was always involved in LDS church service. As a young man he served a two year mission to the Southern States Mission. He also served in many capacities including Elder's Quorum president, High Priest group leader, stake and ward clerk, bishopric counselor, home teacher and many other callings. After retirement he and his wife Dorothy served a mission to the England, Manchester Mission, followed by multiple church service missions focusing on family history. They also submitted thousands of names for temple work from their own personal research.
Farnum was a man of few words but those who knew him well knew that when he spoke, his words would either carry great insight and wisdom or would delight and leave you laughing. He recited memorized scriptures and poetry to his family throughout his life. He loved reading, crossword puzzles, sports, the outdoors, and racing anyone to the top of any hill.
Farnum is survived by his children: Linda (Harold) Johnson, Timothy White, Deanne (Brian) Foster, Wendy Smith, and Matthew (Natalie) White. He is also survived by 18 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Dorothy, sisters Virginia and Dawnette White, son-in-law Kimball Smith, and great-grandson Houston Nielsen.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, December 17th at 12:00 noon, at the Highland View Ward, 3051 S 2900 E, Salt Lake City. A viewing will precede the funeral service the same day at 11:00 am. Interment at the Salt Lake City Cemetery.
