Obituary of Donald Farris

Donald Ralph Farris was born on December 8, 1943 in Corbin, Kentucky. He was the son of the late Delbert Short and Mamie (Turner) Short. Donald moved to Monroe as a child and spent his life there. Donald married the love of his life, the former Brenda Sonnichsen on December 27, 1985. Together they raised three children. Donald was extremely intelligent and a hard worker. He was employed by Conrail performing railroad maintenance for more than twenty years. He also had worked as a union laborer for Enrico Fermi. Donald was a quiet man but enjoyed being around others. He was always more than willing to have lengthy conversations with anyone that needed counseling. He was quite the homebody, truly enjoying the comforts of his own home. Donald also was an avid sports fan. He had a particular love for hockey, and his beloved Red Wings were his favorite team. He also enjoyed a good game of Detroit Tigers baseball. Donald loved going to games with his son, Michael. Donald Ralph Farris, age 70 of Monroe, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, September 28, 2014 at his home. His passing was preceded by both his parents, a brother: John Farris; and a daughter: Angela Farris. To cherish his memory, Donald leaves his loving wife of nearly twenty -nine years, Brenda (Sonnichsen) Farris; three daughters: Paige (Ernest) Soares of Hawaii, Amy Burgard of Ohio and Linda(Mitch) Steils of Ida; two sons: Michael (JoAnn) Cole of Pittsburgh and Russel Cole of Toledo; two brothers: Robert Farris of Monroe and Mitchell (Charlotte) Farris of Florida; nine grandchildren: Nathan (Jolene) Cole, Joanie Cole, Crystal Cary, Chelsea (Jake) Estes, Emily Steils, Bailee Burgard, Sam Steils, Zach Steils and Carlee Burgard; and four great grandchildren. Friends may gather on Wednesday, October 1, 2014 from 2:00pm until a Celebration of His Life at 7:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. Cremation will follow through Southern Michigan Services in Livonia. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Monroe County Humane Society. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.