Steve Farris, 1960-2007

Steven Farris, Director of Dining Services at Knox College, died early Monday, September 3, 2007. He and his wife, Cecilee, a 2005 Knox graduate, had been in Indianapolis, Indiana, to attend drag races, when he apparently suffered a heart attack.

Steve Farris joined Knox College in 1985 as a storekeeper in Dining Services. He moved through several positions, including Business Manager, and became Director of Dining Services in 2001.

"Steve led those with whom he worked by example," said Knox College President Roger Taylor in a message to campus. Often, during the rush of the beginning of fall term, Steve could be found helping operate the dishwashing machine. He listened to suggestions from students and others and implemented many. Most recently, he served as co-chair of the record-setting Faculty and Staff Campaign for the Knox Fund.

As Tom Axtell, Vice President for Finance and Administrative Services, has pointed out, it is impossible to find anyone who ever heard Steve utter a selfish word. Steve has been a familiar face and friend to countless students at Knox over the past twenty-two years. He always had a ready smile. The Knox College community extends its deepest sympathy to Cecilee and Steve's entire family.

Visitation will be Friday, September 7, 2007 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., with funeral services Saturday, September 8, at 10:00 a.m., both at Hinchcliff-Pearson-West, 1070 West Fremont, Galesburg.