Lemley Chapel
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All of Skagit County Since 1935
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David Marcus Farrow Memorial
David Marcus Farrow Memorial

David Marcus Farrow

David Marcus Farrow

Wednesday, March 29th, 2017

The life force that was David Marcus Farrow left this earth on Monday evening, March 27,2017. He was home by a window with cats on his bed.

David entered this world on June 23, 1929 in the parsonage of the First Christian Church in Rosalia, Washington. His father, Eugene Oregon Farrow was giving a sermon when his mother, Ione Wilkins Farrow gave birth to a very boisterous boy.

His sister, Bertie Jean, was two years old at the time.

In 1931 the Farrow’s moved to Los Angeles, California where David grew and thrived.  As a teenager during the war years, David got a job parking cars at Hollywood’s famous nightclubs.

His stories of fast cars and famous actors always delighted people.

He enlisted in the Air Force in 1950 where he became a jet engine mechanic. He was stationed at Sheppard, Chanute and Luke AFB’s.  At Luke he worked with the Air Force Demonstration Team that evolved into The Thunderbirds.

After his discharge he prospected for gold, uranium and other precious metals in the mountains of Arizona and New Mexico.

Hollywood still lured him and he returned to begin a career as an actor.

Acting doesn’t always pay well. He soon learned that his mechanical aptitude would serve him well on the other side of the camera as a grip, prop maker and production manager.

David eventually became a television commercial director for John Urie and Company, one of the first “boutique” production companies in Hollywood.

In 1971 he joined Paisley Productions as a staff director. At Paisley he met his life partner, Christine Kitch, who later became the “Mrs.”.   His clients included, Lincoln Mercury, Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, Mazda, TRW, Toyota, Washington Mutual Savings Bank, Maytag and Sears. Paisley closed in 1989 and David moved to Paramount Images, the commercial division of Paramount Pictures under a three year contract.

Studio restrictions never suited David, so when his contract expired he continued to direct under his own company name: Thimblerig Films.

The love of fast cars and motorcycles reached a peak in 1986 when David became the first man to race in the Baja 1000 on a customized Harley Davidson. He named it “Harley’s Comet”.

Ending his directing career in 2000, David focused on his true passion , flying. He flew for Angel Flight. He flew for pleasure. He flew to explore.

The last chapter of his life began in 2007 when the Farrow’s moved to Mount Vernon, Washington into a small home with a big view of Mount Baker.

New friends were made wherever he turned. He flew photographic flights for the Skagit Land Trust. He counted salmon in his own creek.  He lived life with the joy of constant discovery.

In 2012 his dear friend, George Lowe, authored a collection of David Farrow stories titled: “The Minister’s Son”.

The truth was stretched but not too far.

When the weather warms and the days are long we will celebrate a life well lived.

Guestbook

  • Dennis Vadies

    This belated guestbook signing is because I just learned of David’s passing. I met David at Paisley Productions in Hollywood in the early 80’s and had the pleasure of working with him on McDonald’s commercials.

    A more positive energizing person I have never met. No problems…only solutions. The broad smile always welcome on any film set or anywhere else.

    Rest in Peace, David

  • Selina Noah

    Oh My God!

    I am very shocked about this news. Christine this is Selina from Tanzania, I have been trying to look for your contact just to try search today just to see this sad news. My heart is with you and your family. I still remember both of you very well your help to me and my siblings. May he rest in Peace.

  • Chris Farrow

    Co today David left this earth. Thank you all for your love and ongoing support that you have shown through these long days. Smile whenever you see a rainbow.

  • Henry Caroselli

    Hope he’s as “Happy as a snake eating chocolate out of a toothbrush.”(one of his [in]famous sayings — no one having any idea what he meant). He was a truly unique individual and joy to work with. Our thoughts and sadness are with you Christine.

  • Bill Haas

    David Farrow was a great person number one. I have never worked with a director who was so in tune with camera, actors , camera car and safety all at the same time! If he missed anything I never saw it! He could do it all and do it very well! The world will miss David!!

  • Keith Love

    I had the great opportunity to meet and help Mr. Farrow up at Skagit Regional Airport, where I work. I will always remember the smile on his face when the hangar door was open and he was fussing about with his plane. I could tell he was a man full of life. Much respect sir.

  • David Impastato

    It’s so hard to speak of David and not drift into hyperbole. He was
    bigger than life and then some. His charismatic presence, the power of
    his humor – we all came under its spell and were changed by it. For me
    there is more. I virtually owe him my film career because of the way he
    covered for me when I stumbled onto a sound-stage as a director those
    first few times at John Urie’s. He created a public wall around my
    inexperience by blasting directives at the crew with his unique brand of
    mock-hostility: “Hey, drag your asses away from the craft-service table
    and give this gentleman and scholar the low-key lighting he deserves
    before he fires every one of your sorry butts!” ….. fully
    understanding, of course, that I had no idea whether I wanted low-key or
    high-key lighting for the shot. I will always love him for that kindness
    and mentoring, which continued to reveal itself in our non-public moments
    when he brought such wisdom and consolation to what, for me, were
    difficult years of growth. He was father, brother, minister, friend and,
    finally, hero. My heart will always hold fast him in love and, of course,
    a laughter that belongs to no one else. God bless him!

  • Christine Farrow

    First, I thank all of you for the incredible memories you unlock with these kind words. Each of you will remain precious and dear to us.
    Many people have asked about this photo. Usually,I can remember where and when a photo of David was taken but this one evaded me. After going through his old pilot’s logs,the answer became clear. Conrad Angone took this wonderful shot of David while they were “skylarking” on May 18,1999!
    Wishing them both safe and joyous flight.

  • Megan marra

    It is taken me a while to write something because I had to gather my thoughts. I will always thank David and Chris for welcoming me into the crazy but wonderful life of Production. We had so much fun on location so many times. We really did build a family and that was because of you guys and the way you treated all of us. I learned from you that I always had to make the impossible happen and I better make it quick because “the world is turning people”!!! You may not ever remember the little kitten that you gave me but I had her until just a few years ago,so you guys were with me and in my mind often, though you probably didn’t know that. My regret is that I never told you what an impact you made on our lives, Chuck and I , and how much we gained from watching your relationship. We’ve been together 30 years now and you showed us what love in this crazy business looks like. David you are truly missed and Christine our thoughts and love are with you. Please let us know if there’s anything we can do for you. We owe ya!

  • Jobies (Heath or Jack)

    Life just lost a bit of its brilliants. To say that we will miss you is indeed an understatement

  • John Bamford, Masclat, France

    My late wife and I met Chris and David many years ago while travelling through Northern Italy. Our paths crossed a few times and we became friends, and this friendship has enriched my life. I spent a lovely week with them at their house in Mount Vernon about 3 years ago. Apart from their company, the highlight of the week was a flight around the area with Chris and David, when he let me take the controls for a while. I will remember David for his open friendship, his compassion for wildlife and the environment, and his wonderful stories of his life. He will be sadly missed. Much love to you Chris.

  • Miranda Brocki

    When I was a child my uncle David Farrow was magical. Always fun, ever attentive, he was genuinely interested in us kids as full beings and true companions. He was big and strong, funny, and knew how to make things. It was like having a combination of Elvis Presley, Paul Bunyan and Mark Twain in the house. He took great care of my Grandmother Ione all along and to the end in such kind detail, like keeping her car in the driveway in running condition though she hadn’t the strength to even turn the wheel for several years because he knew what a badge of courage it was for her that she still had her drivers license. David was the best brother possible to my Mom Berti even delaying his desired departure from Los Angeles until after her death in 2005. She would have been lost without him and I am so grateful that he spared her that. The two of them were absolutely hilarious together and back when their Mom was vigorous it was the most fun to be with all three together. I want to add my deep thanks to David’s wife Chris for giving him a wonderful life and for all the effort and kindness on her part to see that he died at home with her and some beloved cats. He would have wanted that above all else.

    He used to carry a business card that read: Any courtesy extended to the bearer of this card will be greatly appreciated. That genius wry wit will be all the introduction he needs to the Great Beyond.

    Thank you for everything Uncle David.
    love,
    Mir

  • Delores Ann Perry

    Thinking of you Chris with prayers. Love you. Delores and family.

  • Jeff Wilkins

    Sixty plus years ago, I met an amazing relative (cousin David) who showed me how blessed we are to be alive and, by extension, how important it is to live life to its fullest. His stories were always fun, funny, and terribly exciting – but it was David, the person, who helped to make all of us smarter, more aware – better. Not surprisingly, his mother Ione was a very special woman who laughed easily, and had an almost wicked zest for life – evidenced by her earning a Master’s degree in Geriatrics in her 80’s. David deeply loved his mom and Bertie, his sister. We all loved David.

    My appreciation of David, as robust as it was, increased when I met Chris, strong, brilliant, beautiful, an impressive life force – indeed a rock as many are writing on this Guestbook. God bless you Chris for your love of David through all the years, and your unfailing support of David as he struggled with his health. David was amazing – truly a gift to us all.

  • Ray Lyle

    It has been said that each mans death diminishes us. I would ad that, some more than others. David Farrow was a gift to all that knew him. His wit, love of life, and work ethic were, in my experience, unmatched. He was certainly a very special human being and my privilege to have known.

    As I write this I smile, no, laugh out loud as I remember him tell the Baja motorcycle tale. What a wonderful way he had of spinning a tale.

    Dearest Christine, I am so sorry for your loss but, be comforted in knowing that he was loved and will be missed by many. Bless you!

    Ray

  • Ruth McCartney

    Well where do I begin? Firstly by saying I am ~ in his words ~ “a lucky son of a bitch” to have met David, Christine and the whole Paisley crew at the tender age of 23. As a “Limey tart” I will never forget my job interview at Paisley, Christine ushered me in to a room that looked like something out of Ripley’s Believe It Or Not. Props and mementoes clung to walls, the ceiling, the back of the door, a giant mystery trunk lurked in the corner, and to top it all off, I lokked up and saw a giant plastic poop, replete with equally enormous plastic house fly, where most people would have hung a chandelier.

    After the usual pleasantries, glancing for 3 seconds at my “resume” and then launching into his “Oh my darling here’s the deal” routine, (whereupon I didn’t know whether to laugh or run for the hills,) David said “welcome aboard Puss, now go see Christine about your paperwork and whatever you do, don’t ask me about the Ladybug.” My next question was…you guessed it, “what Ladybug?”

    Well, if the Ladybug on his front denim belt strap was pointing UP – approach him and chit chat all you like… but on the rare days the Ladybug was pointing down… I’d just tiptoe up to the Director’s chair in my high heels, grip gloves and fishnets, set the guacamole and bottled water down, and bugger off.

    A popular resort figure, and evidently the phantom nephew of the CEO of every major airline (according to his business card collection,) there was only one David M. Farrow. #blessed #luckylittlelimey #thatsawrap #seeyouwhenigetthere

  • Brent Fletcher

    David Farrow will always be to me “The most interesting man in the world”
    My mother and I were blessed to have him in our life.
    RIP

  • Bob Brown

    He could have commanded The Seventh Fleet . . . . . and entertained it!
    It was a privilege to have been on board. Thank you David.

    Bob Brown

  • Don Riedel

    David had a way of making everything we did at John Urie’s special. He was a master with the Cougars we had when shooting the Lincoln Mercury Commercials. David brightened the lives of all of us and he will always have a special place in my book of memories. A kinder man than anyone I know.
    Thank you my friend. Don Riedel

  • Rick Friedberg

    I was a lowly young editor when I met David and Chris at Paisley after my first job at John Urie’s. I thought he was one of the funniest guys on the planet. His stories, including running the parking lot at the Tail of the Cock restaurant where all the legendary producers loved him but never gave him a job as an actor was a lesson for us all. What a force of nature!
    RIP and love to Chris

  • Scott Gardner

    I had the honor and pleasure of working with David during his Paisley years. As a director his energy was intoxicating, he made things happen I didn’t think possible. I was awed by his ability to stay calm in a s-storm and endlessly entertained by his mastery of storytelling.

    He gave invaluable advice to all who listened and delivered compliments and criticism with a gentle laugh that made you feel good either way. His commanding presence hid a gentle and generous soul. David was a thinker and a doer. His adventurous spirit, fearless and unstoppable.

    Hollywood has lost a class act – we have lost a man who made this life a more exciting place to be. Thank you, David for your energy, your art, your stories, your brilliance and your friendship.

  • Guy & wendy barnes

    Guy-Wendy Barnes …. funny both Guy and did our stint at Paisly a few years apart…then met and married….and still going strong……and well Guy’s choice in wardrobe is the same.as David’s. … denim blue jeans and denim shirt.I have a hard time finding the right shirt these days and have to order his jeans out of state as he is so skinny and tall as all Midwest dudes are…. David impacted everyone……. fast cars motorcycles and a wicked charming wit, that never made you feel left out…. he was an original and I find it hard he ever aged a day in my mind all these years later….. yeah he is missed…..however he shaped all of our lives in the opportunities he gave us and I’m ever grateful we all ended up interesting and artistic creative people because of him…….RIP David and fly high………….you will be missed and ever treasured as the person who shaped my life….. love to Christine and family

  • Kristine

    He indeed was a life force. He especially left an everlasting impression on Ansis. We feel so blessed to have met him. He is in our hearts. So are you lovely Chrissie. Rest in peace dear friend. Love always. Ansis and Kristine ( and kitty Momo who was introduced to our little family by David)

  • Bridget Scott-Weich

    David blew like a breeze through our hearts – with it he brought laughter and kindness to our family and bacon for the kitties – and sometimes, the wind swirled with stories of racing and the wonderful uses of butter. I will remember David with a smile on my face. Fly, fly, fly until we meet again.
    My love to his rock, his love, Chrisie.

  • Billy Heath

    Mentor and friend, taught me that anything is possible. I am proud to be called “stupid dink”. I will truly miss you

  • Steve Vengrove

    Hemingway wrote: ‘Every man’s life ends the same way. It is only the details of how he lived that distinguish one man from another.”
    David lived making people laugh. It doesn’t get any better than that.
    My name is Steve Vengrove and I am going to be here for 3 days.

  • Stephen Grass

    Thank you, David. For everything. You had an amazing, magnetic spirit that pulled all of us along on a brilliant, thrilling journey.

  • Stefan Jung

    So sad. I had always a great respect for him and his work. I was proud that my wife Claudia and I could make friends with David, Christine and their friends. I’ll never forget him.

  • Garret Hamm

    Thank you for sharing part of your life and extended “family” with me. My life has a bigger smile because of it. Save my seat at the welding shop.

    …into the van, outta the van…into the van, outta the van…yea..,yea..yea.

  • Chris

    David, you will be missed and your laugh and stories will always be remembered. Thanks for touching our family’s lives forever . Till we meet again. The Belanger’s

  • Kent Kwiatt

    When I think back on the youthful days in which I met and regularly engaged with Mr.David Farrow, I am reminded that we are all the children of many fathers. In David’s role as a director he typified for me the idealized characteristics of compassionate human leadership, effortlessly inspiring and educating through an embracing humor and warmth that still awes me to this day. To my eyes, and in my heart, the world has lost a soul of mythic proportion and history has gained another of legendary import.

  • Angie McCartney

    David leaves behind so many people who admired his vision, appreciated his humour, loved his tenacity and his tenderness with his pussy cats. The Good Lord broke the mold when He created David. Sadness will always be tinged with gladness when we remember him, which will be frequently. My love continues for Christine, his beloved partner, his rock, his champion. He certainly left his mark on the world.

  • Felix and Pam Alcala

    My friend my mentor and my guide to a life of dreams. Thank you David

  • Kevin Smith

    Davids last words to me:
    “I don’t know where were going but we better get there quick !”

    Godspeed, my friend, Fly free.

    K. Smith