David Farris, 86 of Bayside, Wis., passed away peacefully on February 18 at Lawlis Hospice.

Born in 1939 to the late Charles and Sylvia (Cotey) Farris, David was raised in West Allis, Wis. David graduated from West Allis Central in 1957, and later earned an accounting degree from Spencerian College in Milwaukee.

David and his wife Ellen were happily married nearly 55 years. They raised four children in Grafton, Wis. Over the years, they enjoyed many family vacations to "up north" Wisconsin and other national tourist destinations. David was dedicated to his wife and children, but also made time to help aging family members when needed.

In his spare time, David enjoyed many hobbies including birding, golfing, fishing, volleyball, gardening and most passionately, Wisconsin Badgers football for which he was a season ticket holder for decades. With his family and friends, David attended the Badger home games where he enthusiastically sang Varsity and joining in the crowd wave. Being very knowledgeable about birds, he enjoyed hiking at Riveredge Nature Center in Saukville, Wis., and was a long-time active member of the Wildlife Bird Association and National Blue Bird Society.

David's career included positions at Robert W. Baird, Ask Mr. Foster Travel Agency, and North Shore Country Club. His excellent work ethic, lively sense of humor and friendly disposition contributed to his success and many lasting friendships he formed with his colleagues.

After retiring, David and Ellen built their dream home on Lake Arbutus in Neillsville, Wis. There, they enjoyed many summer and winter activities with their visiting children and grandchildren. Their retirement years also included traveling the country visiting many national parks and bird sanctuaries.

David was preceded in death by his loving wife Ellen, parents, and brothers Lee Farris and Don (Lorraine) Farris.

Those left to cherish memories of David are his children Jill (Joel) Schowalter, Diane (Jeff) Kreutzer, Julie Farris (Mike Zwieg), and Jeff Farris, his grandchildren, Mitchell Schowalter, Kristen Schowalter, Sarah Tompkins and Cassie Tompkins, cousins, nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Elizabeth Residence Memory Care facility and staff for their friendships and compassionate care for David during his final years.

A service will be held at a later date. Please check back for service details. In lieu of flowers, donations in David's name may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.