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BORN
1927
DIED
2016
Francis Fermoyle Obituary
FRANCIS "KEN" was the eldest of four sons born to Ernie and Mary Fermoyle, in Detroit, Michigan. He died peacefully in his Woodland Hills, California, home at age 89, four months after being diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Ken leaves a wife, Elizabeth; two daughters, Linda Fermoyle Rice and Adrienne Ann Fermoyle; granddaughters Catlin Tucker and Erin Rice; great-grandchildren, Cheyenne and Maddox Tucker; and brother, Bob. His first wife, Jean, and son, Kenneth, predeceased him in 1991 and 1985, respectively. Ken was a man of many talents and passions who never much believed that moderation was a virtue. He was first and always a gifted writer, editor, and photographer. His career as a journalist included stints as Detroit editor for both Motor Life and Popular Science magazines. Ken also worked for ad agencies, Kenyon & Eckhardt and BBD&O. In 1966, Ken was tapped as editor for a new Peterson publication devoted to recreational vehicles, "Wheels Afield," in Los Angeles. He moved his family west. Over the next five decades, Ken distinguished himself not only with his work, but as a leathersmith, potter, collector of and dealer in first edition books, cyclist, teacher, and digital artist. He and dear friend, Tran Ngoc Chau spent 20 years collaborating to write "Vietnam Labyrinth: Allies, Enemies, and Why the U.S. Lost the War," which was published in 2012. During the last decade of his life, Ken spent much of his time helping his granddaughter Catlin become a published author, editing her three books and contributing to her success as an education leader. But, Ken's first and greatest love was for his family - a decidedly extended family, including blood relatives, near and far, family by marriage and dear friends, not only of his, but of his children, some of whom considered him a second "Dad." More than a dozen of his nieces, nephews and other relations will gather on February 11, 2017, for a memorial. For more info, email [email protected].
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Francis Fermoyle
Carol Hernandez
January 14, 2017
So talented and kind, the world was a better place because Ken shined his light upon it.
Patty Dillon
January 13, 2017
My first memory of Ken (my adopted dad) was at an overnight party at Adrienne's house. He danced with us AND made us beef jerky. Every time we'd go sleepover he'd make us jerky. He made the best jerky!!!!
He was so smart, kind, compassionate. He kept in touch with his adopted daughters faithfully. A few years back we went to our 40th reunion and we all stopped to see dad, it was wonderful to see him after so many years. He still looked the same. My husband Jim got to meet dad on that trip they talked for quite a few hours. Jim really liked him. Jim was a Vietnam Veteran so he was very interested in Dad's book.
He had a way of making everyone feel special. He will be fondly missed.
RIP Daddy Ken. I love you.
I hope the Fermoyle family finds solace in the fond memories and of how much dad was loved.
Nina Metichecchia
January 10, 2017
I'm not sure who adopted who, I do know that Ken (adopted Dad) enriched my life. I must have been at the first overnight with Leslie, because my first memory of Ken is also of him dancing with us. I think there were 5 or 6 girls sleeping over that night. I know we all considered him a dad to us. Fermoyle family, thank you for sharing this lovely, spirited, adventurous man with me. He will be missed.
Michael Munniks
January 10, 2017
Extended family was more than a way to describe someone Ken welcomed into his home and life. From the moment I first walked into the Fermoyle's Woodland Hills home in 1976 the sense of welcome turned a stranger to a friend with Ken's first warm greeting which included now you need to stand up against the wall and be measured. It was not a challenge or intimidation, you literally were invited to stand up alongside a door frame in the kitchen and have your height marked on a spot of honor that included the likes of family, friends, neighbors and celebrities. You actually became a physical part of the Fermoyle home and family. And that sense of welcome and inclusion has endured in all the years since then.
I was lucky to see Ken a few weeks before his passing and his genuine warmth of greeting was just as sincere and enthusiastic as it was on that first day of measuring 40 years earlier. There are not many true genuine people in the world like Ken but he helped instill and encourage his true nature of self' in both his blood and extended families. He will be missed.
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Leslie Scharf
January 10, 2017
Ken (dad) Fermoyle was a wonderful man. I remember the first over night party at their house in high school and he got up and danced with all of us. he made us all smile and laugh. My fondest moments have been the last 10 years when he "be-fathered" all of us. He was passionate about our friendship. He was there for me with all of my losses and all of my celebrations. He always offered words of wisdom, that I will forever treasure. He started righting a book "The Boy Who Could Fly" which is almost finished. My great nephew Canyon and I read the book together. Although he didn't have an opportunity of finishing it, I can imagine the ending. He always sent Canyon his love when he called and even took the time to talk to him on the phone. Canyon will forever treasure this as he made him feel so special. Ken (dad) made everyone feel special. His love for his family and friends will live on forever.
I am so sad for the family, and pray that his memory will bring smiles to their hearts.
Godspeed and blessings...
Adrienne Fermoyle
January 10, 2017
I am not exactly sure what happens when we die, but I do know that some part of our essence goes on.
I would like to believe that we are reunited with all of our loved ones who have gone before us. If so, then there are a lot of people for my Dad to see :-)
Godspeed, Daddy.
Adrienne Fermoyle
January 10, 2017
I am very proud and grateful to have been one of his children. He taught me a lot. Two of the greatest gifts he gave me were acceptance of who I am and a love of words.
I will miss him so much. I am so grateful for the love and support of my entire family, especially my sister Linda.
Adrienne Fermoyle
January 10, 2017
My Dad was truly one of a kind. I am so proud and grateful to have been one of his children.
I learned many things from him, but the two that have been cornerstones in my life: the freedom to express and be who I am and a love bordering on reverence for the power of words.
At times like this however, words seem so inadequate....all I can say is I love you and will miss you so much.
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