Thomas Michael “Mike” Farley (79), a loving father, veteran, and friend to all, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2026.

Mike was born on August 4, 1946, in Camden, New Jersey, to William and Mildred Farley. As a young boy, his family moved frequently, and he spent his childhood years in New Jersey, Illinois, Ohio, and Pennsylvania—experiences that helped shape his easygoing nature and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

Following high school, Mike proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving his country with honor for four years. During his service, he was deployed to Vietnam and also spent time in the Philippines and Asia. His time in the Marines was a defining chapter in his life, one that he carried with quiet pride and deep respect for his fellow servicemen.

After his honorable discharge, Mike returned to Pennsylvania and began building a career and a life grounded in hard work and determination. He first worked as a car salesman before finding his calling in the telephone industry. Mike eventually owned his own phone business and later spent many dedicated years with Bell Atlantic, continuing through its transition into Verizon. He retired after decades of loyal service, leaving behind a reputation for integrity, knowledge, and a strong work ethic.

In 1978, while working for the phone company, Mike met the love of his life, Marie. Their connection was immediate and lasting. After several years of dating, they were married on June 12, 1982. Together they built a beautiful life, first in New Jersey and then Pennsylvania, where they welcomed their son, Michael.

In 2014, after both had retired, Mike and Marie followed their dream of a quieter life and found their perfect place in Elkhorn Meadows near Fernwood, Idaho. There, Mike truly found his peace. Surrounded by nature, he spent countless hours on his porch, watching wildlife and taking in the beauty of the land he loved so deeply. He was passionate about caring for his property, planting trees, and creating a place that reflected his appreciation for the outdoors.

Mike had a love for motorcycles and proudly owned a Harley for many years. He also had a passion for muscle cars and spent time drag racing in his youth, always enjoying the thrill and camaraderie that came with it. A lifelong sports fan, Mike remained loyal to the Cleveland Browns through every season, good or bad; true testament to his unwavering spirit.

Above all, Mike will be remembered for the kind of man he was. He was genuinely one of a kind warm, loving, and endlessly kind. He never met a stranger and had a way of making everyone feel welcome and valued. Whether you knew him for a moment or a lifetime, Mike left an impression of goodness, humor, and sincerity. He was the kind of man who would do anything for anyone, without hesitation.

His life was one of quiet strength, deep love, and simple joys. He found happiness in the people around him, the beauty of nature, and the life he built with those he loved most.

Mike is survived by his son Michael Farley of Fernwood, ID; daughter Dina Koehler of Kintnersville, PA; siblings James (Peggy) Farley of Pennsylvania, Joann Kladkey of New York, and Patricia Stackowich of Illinois; granddaughter Lindsay Fanelli; great grandchildren Jeffrey Michael III, Lucia Marie, and Bradley James; numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife Marie, and his brother David Farley.

Military honors will be presented on Friday, May 15, 2026, at 3:00 pm at the Veteran’s Memorial in Woodlawn Cemetery. A gathering of family and friends will follow at the river property of Keith and Debby Powell on Lewis Lane near Fernwood, ID.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.