Mark W. Farthing, 67, of Columbia City, died at 4:30 a.m. Monday, December 20, 2021, at Parkview Whitley Hospital, where he had been admitted on Sunday.

Born on July 3, 1954, in Mio, Michigan, he was a son of the late Clifford Wills and Barbara Ann Cournyer Farthing. Growing up in the tri-city area of Bay City – Flint – Midland, Michigan, he graduated from Mio Ausable High School in 1972.

On January 8, 1974 he entered the U.S. Air Force. Due to the fact his Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) was not available, he was given an honorable discharge on January 24, 1974.

From an early age, he was a natural guitar player with the ability to pick up a stringed instrument and play it proficiently. He became a professional bass guitar player opening for renowned singers Merle Haggard and Kenny Rogers, among others.

After leaving the music business, he worked in the construction trade, most recently with Signature Construction in Auburn.

Surviving is his companion, Connie Burns of Columbia City; a daughter, Brianna Farthing of Atlanta, GA siblings, Mary (Charles) Watson of Smiths Creek, MI, Margaret (Jon) Merkle of Franklin, TN, James Farthing of Savanah, GA Carole Ann Launstein of West Branch, MI and Hazel Emery of Port Huron, MI.

In accordance with Mark's wishes, a cremation will take place with a celebration of life to be held at a later date.  Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.