Lewis "Ted" Gum

Lewis Ted Gum, 75, of Nixa, Missouri, passed away on March 26, 2026, peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Born on June 9th, 1950, in Syracuse, Kansas, Ted lived a life deeply rooted in family, faith, and his passion for agriculture.

Ted grew up on a farm in western Kansas, where he developed a strong work ethic and an appreciation for rural life. These early experiences shaped his career and the values he carried throughout his life. He attended K-State University, majoring in agricultural journalism, and remained a devoted K-State fan for the rest of his days.

Ted's professional journey was marked by innovation and dedication to the agricultural community. He began his career as a farm writer for the Drover's Journal and Grass & Grain Publishing. In 1974, he helped launch Farm Talk Newspaper, a publication that continues to provide vital agricultural information to the four-state area. His vision extended beyond journalism; in 1975, Ted played a pivotal role in creating the first Four State Farm Show, an event that has since become a cornerstone for the region's farming community. Building on this success, Ted collaborated with the Ozark Fairground staff to pioneer the inaugural Ozark Fall Farmfest in October of 1980. Both events have grown tremendously and now draw over 40,000 visitors annually to southeast Kansas and the Ozarks.

Ted's personal life was equally rich and fulfilling. He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Barbara Gum. Together they blended their families into one on March 16, 1996. Ted's children include Trevor (Pam) Gum and Tamara (Troy) Sears from previous marriages to Marsha Anderson (deceased) and Sandy Gum. Through his marriage to Barbara, he became a devoted stepfather to Jeremy (Shannon) Hoose, Stacy (Mike) Diamond, and Keith (fiancée Jess) Hoose. His family grew to include eight cherished grandchildren: Tyler Gum; Kaylee (Austin) Eckert; Caiden Sears; Jase Sears; Caleb Pierce (fiancée Landrey); Liam Diamond; Colin Diamond; and Ellie Diamond.

Ted is also survived by his sisters Maxine (Bruce) Hines and Carolyn Weskamp; nephews Travis (Corinna) Hines and Andrew (Bailey) Weskamp; niece Caitlin (Danny) Cole; sister-in-law Linda (Preston) Haddan; mother-in-law Dagmar (Dale) Snodgrass; and many other extended family members who will miss him dearly.

Ted is preceded in death by his father, Lewis Molz Gum and his mother, Mary Ellen Gum.

Ted's deep spirituality was nurtured through his participation in a recovery program that strengthened his belief in a Higher Power. He was known for his analytical humor and unique catchphrases such as "I will think before I act, and consider the consequences of my actions." These catchphrases were often drawn from rural wisdom which he used to teach life lessons with a quiet smile and twirl of his mustache. Papa's "words of wisdom" became treasured memories for his children and grandchildren as they reflected his life experiences.

Family was at the heart of Ted's life. He provided unwavering love and support to those closest to him, making them the center of his world. His legacy lives on through the values he instilled in them – hard work, kindness, humor, and resilience.

May Ted's memory bring comfort to all who knew him. His contributions to agriculture and the lives he touched will not be forgotten.

A private Celebration of Life for family and close friends will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to:

Common Solutions Experience

814 Mills Road

Ozark, MO 65721

Venmo:

Carol Smothers

@CommonSolutionExperience