To all our East Montrose neighbors, Our good friend and neighbor Bob Farquharson passed away early last Saturday, October 23rd. His death was sudden and unexpected. His family chose to honor his passing without public ceremony. Neither a funeral nor a memorial service is planned at this time.
For those of you who did not know Bob, he was President of the East Montrose Civic Association for the year 2008. He was a true asset to the community, and we will all miss him. Bob's obituary is expected to be in The Houston Chronicle on Sunday, October 31. In case you don't see the newspaper, the following is the text of his obituary. ---------------------------------------------------------- OBITUARY: Robert C. Farquharson II, 66, passed away early Saturday morning, October 23, 2010, at his home in the Montrose area, in Houston. He died peacefully in the arms of his beloved spouse, Bob Mills. Robert was born in Gulfport, Mississippi on November 30, 1943. He attended primary and secondary schools on Long Island, New York; Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts; Jacksonville University, Jacksonville, Florida, where he was awarded the Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education; the University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida, where he was awarded the Master's degree in Educational Administration; and was also admitted to candidacy for the Doctor of Philosophy degree at the University of Florida. He maintained numerous academic and professional credentials in teaching, leadership, management and administration. Robert enjoyed a long and distinguished career in the field of Education. He began as an elementary school teacher in Jacksonville, Florida, before moving to the Houston Independent School District (HISD) in 1970. His many positions at HISD over the next 34 years began with elementary school teaching and progressed through assignments as principal of elementary schools, middle schools and high schools. He eventually became District Executive Director, HISD Southwest, and Director of Main Event Management Systems Administration. After officially retiring from his HISD position, Robert taught management and systems theory for a local consulting firm. Robert continued teaching until his death, at which time he was an instructor of English as a Second Language with the Houston Community College. Robert's accomplishments were even more notable because of the significant health challenges he faced. In 1998, he was diagnosed with advanced cancer and given little hope for survival. After enduring extensive chemotherapy, radiation and massive surgery, he conquered the odds and continued his work. In addition to occupying various positions of professional leadership, Robert was a highly respected social leader and community supporter for many years, serving as President of the East Montrose Civic Association, and representing the neighborhood in political and social activities. He was the master of the written and spoken word, and happily shared his wisdom and abilities with all who asked. Robert is survived by his spouse and life partner of 31 years, Bob Mills, to whom he was married in Connecticut in July 2010. He is also survived by his mother, Shirley Farquharson, and his sister, Sue Buerkel, both of Mastic, New York. Robert will be sorely missed by his spouse, family, many dear friends, neighbors, former students and co-workers. Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, with a specific designation for colorectal cancer. ----------------------------------------------------
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