Robert Pearce Farnsworth

Robert Pearce Farnsworth passed on September 12, 2023, in the home of his son in Aurora, Colorado, at the age of 93. He lived a life full of learning, serving, and sharing what he valued most -- a strong faith in God, and God's Plan for the happiness of His Children--all of mankind.

Robert (Bob) was born in Fillmore, Utah, on August 1, 1930, to Burton K. and Mabel P. (Pearce) Farnsworth. Bob’s father died when Bob was a young teenager, but his mother lived till she was close to 90 years old. Four of the five siblings he grew up with (and three of their spouses) have preceded him in death: Lucille Hales (Vern), Dean (Grace), Margaret Richards (Elliott—Living), Patty Tolley—Living (Garth), Richard (Wilma—Living).

Bob grew up primarily in Salt Lake City, Utah at 219 8th Ave. He became an Eagle Scout, and among other interests enjoyed the outdoors, electronics and his Ham Radio hobby. He graduated from University of Utah in Physics, and served for about two years in the military. In 1957 he became employed at the Culver City, CA, branch of Hughes Aircraft and worked there (and the companies that succeeded it) until he retired. He holds various patents in his field and was highly respected.

In 1953 Bob was married and sealed for time and eternity in the Salt Lake Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to Loene K. (Herlin) who died in 2003, just two months before their 50th wedding anniversary. They spent most of their married life in Los Angeles, CA, where they raised eight children (and gained wonderful sons and daughters in-law): Linda, (Bruce Ferguson), R. Glen (Susan Brady), Debra (Richard Teichert), Laureen (Mark Arnell), Sheri (Scott Gordon), Steven (Tami Bishop), Kathy (David Bobo), Kenneth (Nancy Pitcher), Janet (died in infancy). Bob and Loene were a support to one another in their various responsibilities, each having their own strengths to contribute in the joys and hardships of their 50 years of marriage.

In August of 2004 Bob married Emiko (Aki) who survives him and has enriched his life for almost 2 decades. Their marriage also brought her three adult children: Richard Peterson, Harry Peterson (deceased), and Linda Van Der Linde, along with their families, into the family circle. Emiko has been a sweetheart and friend to Bob in these latter seasons of life, and among other adventures the couple was able to serve a mission in Tokyo together for their Church. Their home has been in Venice, CA, until August of 2022 when, for health reasons, he moved into the home of his son and daughter-in-law, Steven and Tami, in Aurora, Colorado.

Other service that Bob gave in connection with the Church included serving as a young missionary in the New England States Mission, a counselor in a Stake Presidency, a Bishop, working in the Seminary program, Home Teacher, and various other callings and responsibilities. He leaves behind a legacy of love of God that will continue in many who came under his influence.

Bob lived a long life in spite of experiencing two kinds of cancer during his lifetime. He is survived by a family circle of more than 235 loved ones, including his wife, Emiko, and most of their combined children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and their spouses. (In addition to those previously noted, those that preceded Bob in death include a grandson, two infant great-grandsons and many loved In-laws.) Gratitude and love go out to all family members, with a special thanks to Linda F and Bruce, Linda V and Brent, Steven and Tami—and all who have been so supportive in the extended and generous care given Bob. Also, love and appreciation go to all his friends, Mar Vista Ward and Santa Monica Stake members, as well as the various doctors, nurses and other caregivers Bob has had throughout his 93 years.

Bob, Dad, Grandpa—you will be missed till we meet again.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 23rd at 11 a.m. at the Kenwood 2nd Ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 2930 South 2000 East, Salt Lake City, Utah. There will be a viewing that morning at 10 a.m. prior to the funeral. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all who have helped (and will yet help) these Memorial Services take place.