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Geoffrey Farnsworth Obituary

Farnsworth, Geoffrey Of Whitefish Bay. Entered Eternal Life Friday, July 22, 2011, at the age of 40. Beloved husband of Kelley (nee Miller). Dear daddy of Gavin, Grady and Addison. Son of George and Mary Lou Farnsworth. Brother of Laura (Paul) Chelsen and Andrew Farnsworth. Grandson of Ann Farnsworth. Geoff is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. Geoff was very passionate about his career as a social studies teacher at Whitefish Bay Middle School and coaching a variety of sports. He was a graduate of Purdue University, Marquette University and earned his master's degree in School Business Management from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. Visitation will be held Wednesday, July 27, from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM, at the Feerick Funeral Home. A second visitation will be held Thursday from 10:00 AM until time of service at 11:00 AM at Elmbrook Church, 777 S. Barker Rd., Brookfield. Memorials in Geoff's name can be made to Habitat for Humanity, 2233 N. 30 St., Milwaukee, WI 53208, Milwaukee Rescue Mission, 830 N. 19 St., Milwaukee, WI 53233, or American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 902, Pewaukee, WI 53072.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel from Jul. 24 to Jul. 25, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Geoffrey Farnsworth

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Sandy Gaby

April 23, 2012

April 23, 2012
I have many fond memories of Geoff when he and Eric moved to San Diego after Purdue. Geoff was my ultimate Tour Guide, when Eric was at work. Such an amazing person. So friendly and animated. Always genuinely interested in what the other person had to say. My Heartfelt Thoughts to all of you.

Eric Gaby

April 20, 2012

Remembering Geoff, always pushing for the best in each of us...

Daniel Lu

November 29, 2011

I am honored to have Geoff as my sixth grade social studies teacher. He truly made an impact on the person I am today. Words cannot describe how amazing he was. He was a brilliant communicator, teacher, and friend. May god bless him and his family.

Sandi Gaillardetz

August 23, 2011

Dear Kelly, We are truly saddened by the loss of Geoff. I remember the two of you many years ago in Wolfeboro, NH. My two girls, Katie and Jordan, absolutely loved the two of you and you both made the summer of 1993 fun. I remember Geoff being excited about being a teacher and you entering the medical field. You both shared a beautiful happiness together that I admired and was very encouraged by it. The girls and I have thought of the both of you for many years wondering how you were doing. Again, we are so sorry for your loss. Love, Sandi, Katie and Jordan Gaillardetz. Milford, NH (603-305-0874)

Carrie Clement

August 9, 2011

Remembering Geoff Farnsworth, a kind-hearted teacher who mentored and supported me through my first year teaching in Whitefish Bay. I will forever remember his compassion and commitment to his students. Geoff, you had a significant impact on the hearts and minds of the students you taught, as well as the people who had the privilege of working alongside you.

Danielle Davis

August 7, 2011

Mr. Farnsworth was an awesome teacher, he made my sixth grade year awesome. You could tell he really enjoyed his job and loved interacting with kids. I would always go back and visit him because of the great time I had, he really made history interesting and got me hooked - thanks to him, I am in love with history today. And I really enjoyed seeing him years later when I was able to coach his boys in soccer, you could tell how much he loved them just by the pure enjoyment and smile on his face. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, may you find some comfort during this hard time.

Chastitee Mari Bowman

August 5, 2011

Majority of my first cousins have or still are at Whitefish Bay and it holds an abundance of outstanding teachers from what they tell me. God never forgets the work that the righteous do in is name.(Amos8:7)
-Bowman/Dotson family

August 1, 2011

Dear George and Mary Lou,
We just got word about the loss of your son. We lift you , Kelley, children, family, students and friends in prayer as he will be missed. May his life be celebrated with sweet memories.
We are thinking of you...
Love,
Matthew and Lori Munn
Western Australia

Joel and Mary Kriofske

July 30, 2011

Mary saw Geoff a few months ago at J Shore (in Bayshore). She and Geoff talked about their respective cancers (Mary had breast cancer in '07), and discussed maintaining a positive attitude. We -- Mary and Joel -- truly enjoyed seeing Geoff having not seen him for quite some time. He and Kelley were wonderful tenants. Many of our neighbors called us about his passing as we were vacationing with family. He was an outstanding young man and will certainly be missed. Kelley, we are so sorry for you and your children, and extend our best wishes.

John Annis

July 29, 2011

Mr. Farnsworth was a great man and a great teacher, I had many good times in his class whether talking sports or learning history. You will be missed greatly! You may be gone but you will never be forgotten. Rest In Peace Mr. Farnsworth

Tim Grube

July 28, 2011

My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. I didnt know Geoffrey, but he seems like such a good man. God Bless

July 28, 2011

We will remember Geoff always for being an optimistic yet accepting role model for his family and all of us in pursuit of his passion - teaching impressionable young souls how to live. His example through life with humor, caring and love will always resonate with us. Our heartfelt love, support, hugs and prayers are with Kelley, kids and family.

Connie & Steve, Taylor & Mac Zumwalt

Christy Ziebarth

July 28, 2011

Dear Kelley and dear Gavin, Grady and Addy; You are all being held close in our hearts and in our prayers, especially today as you celebrate Geoff's life and lay him to rest today. Though our families have been close friends for a long time, I'm so sorry I wasn't able to get to know Geoff better in the 2 years that we have been in Whitefish Bay. But, I do know this about him, he made a deep and positive impact on the people that were in his life. And now he joins God having been the best servant he knew how to be here on earth, and will be with you and your children, but just in a different way. As a mother of children the ages of yours, it is absolutely heart crushing when I imagine what you and your children have lost in Geoff in this world, but please take strength in knowing that he's not as far from us as we may think, his body is not with us but his spirit lives on. Kelley, I know you know all of this, but as many reminders of this at this time is hopefully comforting. Kelley, let us know if we can help you and your children in any way at this really difficult time. Sincerely and with love, The Ziebarth Family (Todd, Christy, Ben and Leila)

Dexter Scott

July 28, 2011

He was a man who no one could say anything bad about. He brought so much happiness and good to this world. A great teacher, a great man, and an amazing father. God bless him and his family.

July 28, 2011

Our whole family feels very lucky to have gotten to know Geoff over the last year, he was an amazing person with a wonderful gift for teaching and coaching. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Chris, Katie, Elizabeth, Celia and Annmarie Murphy

July 28, 2011

My thoughts & prayers go out to Geoff's family. I went to high school with Geoff and hadn't seen or talked to him since graduation, but remember what a great guy he was. Rest in Peace. Karen Hightower (NCHS Class of '89)

Katie Commer

July 28, 2011

A outstanding person, role model and teacher who will be greatly missed by the entire community. I appreciated all he did for each student at the MS, it was an honor to work with him. Our deepest sympathy to Kelley and their children who he loved and cherished so very much.
You are all in our prayers, today and always.
Jeff, Katie, Livy and Ben Commer

Dr. Bill Henk

July 28, 2011

May God bless your family at this very difficult time. Please know that the College of Education at Marquette University regards Geoff as precisely the type of teacher and human being we want working with our precious school children. We are exceedingly proud of him.

Nora Fitzpatrick

July 27, 2011

Geoff was a kind, positive man who understood -- and appreciated -- the foibles of middle school children and made learning fun for them. I am grateful to have known him as a colleague in the District and as my children's sixth grade history teacher. He will be missed by all who knew him. Our condolences to the Farnsworth family.

The Vliet Family

July 27, 2011

Geoff made a huge impression on both of our children early on in his teaching career.We remember his dedication to children , and to teaching,as well as such a great spirit & sense of humour.
May your family be comforted by many joyful memories.

Nicole Daghe Fischer

July 27, 2011

Kelley & kids - My thoughts and prayers go out to you during this very difficult time. I have known Geoff since Kindergarten. He was always a super sweet and just genuine person. I am so glad to have had the opportunity to reconnect at our 20th reunion. May you take comfort in the fact that he touched so many people in his short time with us.

Jim & Laura Stratte

July 27, 2011

Kelley,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We knew Geoff from when he taught our daughter at the Middle School, and from running into him at the JCC pool. He was a wonderful, kind person and a great father. We are so sorry for your loss.

July 27, 2011

I graduated NCHS with Geoff. While I have not seen him in more than 20 years, I know his pain. As I write this, my husband is dying of colon cancer. He was diagnosed Stage 4 in 2006. He was just 33. I hope Geoff's story inspires others to know the symptoms and get diagnosed early. His life is an inspiration.
Krista Pennie Myers

Sally Danforth

July 27, 2011

Geoff had always given me a smile and a "Good Morning" each day at the MS which I have missed this passed school year. I had also been fortunate to teach their two boys and experience their love of learning. Geoff will be missed but his spirit will continue in his loving family.

Amy Beno

July 27, 2011

Kelley,
It was a pleasure getting to know you and Geoff this t-ball season. It was obvious what a great husband, father and coach he was. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.

Chuck and Amy Beno

July 27, 2011

A special thing about Geoff is that he did not do things for personal recognition but simply because he had compassion for those of any age and believed it was the right thing to do. That is the reason he was such a great teacher and role model for those whose lives he touched.
Martha Zumwalt

Lisa Gies

July 27, 2011

WFB middle school community was fortunate to be served by such a quality individual. Geoff stands as a model for all of us! He was not only a professional in every sense of the word but his compassion for others warmed the heart of any who had the honor to be in his presence! His incredible spirit will live on in these halls for eternity.

Potter Family

July 27, 2011

WFB will surely miss the creative and effective teaching skills of this wonderful; Teacher

July 27, 2011

I have been a good friend of Geoff's family for many years having lived in Bloomington/Normal. I watched him grow up. I am not sure if he was in my Home Ec. class or not. Geoff will be missed by his loving family and his many friends. The education system has lost an excellent teacher. Peace Geoff! Jeri Powers

Melissa Sweaney

July 27, 2011

I didn't know Geoff but he sounds like an amazing person and loved by everyone he knew. I once lived in WFB and my family was struck by cancer. I can't thank the neighbors and friends enough... that reached out to me and helped support my family in our time of need. As life sends us all "curve balls" I wish we could all live in a place like WFB. May god continue to show you blessings and reason for this amazing life cut short.

Vanessa Nerbun

July 27, 2011

Kelley,
We remember Geoff constantly smiling when he played and swam with the kids at the JCC. We would always comment, "what an awesome dad." Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time.

Best wishes, The Nerbun Family

Jim Barnett Assured Mortgage

July 27, 2011

I will always remenber Geoff sitting in my office with you Kelley and how he encoraged my faith with his faith. I know that Jesus is saying " well done thy good and faithful servant"

July 27, 2011

Geoff was an exemplary teacher, a wonderful husband and father, and an all around nice guy - he will be missed by everyone he touched in his life.
Mary Kreul

Wendts

July 27, 2011

I had the pleasure of meeting Geoff through my wife as they worked together, he is the most genuine person I've ever met in my life. I'm back in school to become as teacher and will strive everyday to be half as good an educator as he is as I don't know that anyone will ever be that great again. I will miss getting to needle him in the morning at drop off about that gaudy purple jersey. :-) Geoff, you were truly an angel on earth and everyone that has ever had the pleasure of speaking with you came away a better person as a result of it. You are an inspiration to how I hope my children live their lives with class, dignity and an unprecedented respect for one's fellow man. You will truly be missed but never forgotten. We love you.

The Wendts...........Renee, Mason, Rachel and Chad

Maria Holoch

July 27, 2011

May you fly with the angels Geoff...deepest condolances and sympathies to your family....rest in peace...

Katherine Murray

July 27, 2011

He was my son's favorite teacher and he was so happy to have spoken with him on the 4th of July. I know that time with him was very special to him. He will be sorry to learn of his loss when he returns from his trip.

Judy Harbour

July 27, 2011

Dear family of Geoff. Your losing this young man made me cry.....again since my son, age 33, had to leave us because he couldn't fight the cancer any longer. I am here to talk if you like

Love to you

Judy
248-245-7730

July 27, 2011

WOW what an amazing article. I am sure he was an awesome teacher. We don't have enough like that. He will be missed for sure. Our family will keep you in our prayers. I grew up with Geoff. Our families went to the same church for years. So saddened to hear this news. What a great father, and husband as well. Just still in shock! What great memories you have.----Jacque (Barnes) Austin (NCHS '89) (Morton, IL)

Christine Foley

July 27, 2011

Dear Kelley,
We are so sorry to hear about Geoff's passing. Sending our deepest sympathy to you and your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Christine, Dave, Connor and Elsa Foley

Deb Rakoczy

July 26, 2011

Kelley - My heartfelt sympathies for the loss of your best friend..…My thoughts are with you, the kids and your family during this difficult time.

Carolyn King-Bolsinger (NCHS '89)

July 26, 2011

My thoughts and prayers to Kelley, their kids and all of Geoff's family. May you find some comfort in your wonderful memories of Geoff.

July 26, 2011

Although I only knew Geoff for two years, it didn't take long to recognize he was a genuinely good person. Within a school district filled with excellent teachers, Geoff managed to stand out as one of the very best. His positive influence and legacy will clearly live on through his own three children, but also through the 1,000+ students Geoff has taught and coached over the years.
-- Laura Myrah, Director of Instruction, School District of Whitefish Bay

Sara Andersen

July 26, 2011

Dear Kelley, Gavin, Grady and Addy.....we were so saddened to learn the news of Geoff's passing. What a wonderful guy he was...such a terrific husband and father! We were very lucky to have you all as our neighbors during our time in WFB. I will always have memories of Geoff walking by the house with a big smile as he's pushing 2 kids in a stroller and carrying another. Our deepest sympathy and prayers to you, the kids and both families. He's at peace now. May all those wonderful memories keep you strong and moving forward! Love, Sara, Sean, Lily, Sam and Morgan Andersen

Anne Marie and John Arzenti

July 26, 2011

May God bless and watch over all of you. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Anne Marie and John Arzenti

Sammy Kahwaji

July 26, 2011

Mary Lou,George and Family,
Please accept our deepest sympathy.Though we did not know Geoffery we are sure he will be at peace in Heaven.

God Bless Your Family
Sammy and Jeanette Kahwaji

Mary Mack Peterson

July 26, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Geoff in Middle and High School. He had a bright smile, was kind to everyone and an easy going attitude that made it a joy to be friends with him.
My thoughts and prayers go out to your family.

Matt&Gina

July 26, 2011

Kelley, words can't discribe how amazing Geoff was. Throughout our friendship Geoff taught me many things. We've shared many wonderful memories and had fun laughing at ourselves. Geoff's positive spirit remains.

Daniel and Lois Shaw

July 26, 2011

Dear Kelley, Gavin, Grady and Addison, We have been praying for you through Geoff's cancer prognosis and treatment and will continue to pray for you. Geoff's passing is at such a young age, and we, humanly, view it as before his time. God had his eternal home ready and has welcomed him. May the strong arms of Jesus hold you securely close to His heart. John 14:1-3 Grace Church family/friends, Dan and Lois Shaw

The While Family, Moore's, and McCammon's

July 26, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family. We knew Geoff from Grace Baptist Church and Normal Community. Fond memories fill our hearts.

July 25, 2011

Kelley,

It was a blessing to have met your husband and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all! Geoff was an amazing coach to our Gigi and Ari. May God bless your family.

In Christ,

Gary and Ceci Young

Craig Ulezelski

July 25, 2011

With my heart fully extended to the Farnsworth family, I can only say what a great honor it is to have known Geoff.

Ginny & Tom Gilbert

July 25, 2011

Mary Lou and George,
We'll always remember Goeff as a fine young man. We'll remember the friendship he had with our son Joe in high school and as fraternity brothers and room mates at Purdue. He was a special kind of guy who was loved by all who knew him. We send our deepest sympathy to you, Kelley and the children.

ellen menefee

July 25, 2011

My deepest sympathy to Kelley and Geoff's family....may God bless and watch over you and your children now and in the years to come. What an inspiration to have known Geoff- and bear witness to the beautiful bond he and Kelley shared. Ellen Menefee

Kimberly McGowan

July 25, 2011

My deepest sympathy to all of Geoff's family and friends. He was an amazing person, and I'm sure his spirit will live on within his beautiful children.

Lyn Potts (NCHS Class of '89)

July 25, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers to Geoff's family.

Jamie Miller

July 25, 2011

My deepest sympathies go to you and your family during this difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Teresa Jerofke

July 25, 2011

Kelley,
My heart goes out to you and your family during this difficult time. I am so sorry for your loss and you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Greg Buhr

July 25, 2011

Kelley, our prayers go out to you and your family. Jeff was an inspiration to so many. Jeffs enthusiam and passion for life will be missed by the students he taught and the friends that he made. May God Bless you and your family

Melissa Lucas Shane

July 25, 2011

I was a childhood classmate of Geoff's and I always remember him as a sweet, fun loving boy. I am so sorry to learn of the news. You are in my prayers.

Laddie Voslar

July 25, 2011

Kelley, my deepest sympathies to you and your family. You and your family are in our prayers. --- Laddie Voslar

david oliver

July 25, 2011

Wishing your family peace during this difficult time. Sincerely, David Oliver (0X)

Kelsey Arnold

July 24, 2011

Geoff was a very strong man throughout his battle, he always had a smile on his face and brightened my day whenever I saw him! My deepest sympathy to Kelley and the children, who he constantly talked about whenever we saw him at the clinic.
Kelsey, MA in the faith clinic

valerie markham

July 24, 2011

A marvelous man and a fabulous teacher who will be so terribly missed by the entire school community. Our deepest sympathy to Kelley and children who he loved and cherished so very much.
You are all in our prayers.
Val, Paul, Gemma and Annika Markham

Gene Zumwalt

July 24, 2011

We remember Geoff's wonderful smile and enthusiasm when talking about his family, his students and his sports teams. We send our love and heartfelt condolences for his all too early passing. May God give you comfort in this difficult time.

Love, Gene, Amy, Blane, and Joel Zumwalt

Wendy Adamczewski

July 24, 2011

Kelley,

My deepest condolences go out to you and your little ones. You and your family are in my prayers.

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