Dave Farris

It is with heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Dave Farris on May 18, 2026. Dave, age 73, departed this world peacefully at his home in Jefferson City, Missouri, after a courageous battle with glioblastoma. Born on April 8, 1953, to William (Bill) and Clara Farris, Dave was a beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose legacy will forever be cherished by those who knew him. A native of Jefferson City, Dave embraced life with a warmth and sincerity that touched all who crossed his path. He graduated from Helias Catholic High School in 1971, where he began to forge the friendships and values that would guide him throughout his life. Known for his steadfast work ethic, Dave found his calling in the honest labor of a backhoe operator, ultimately finishing his career with pride at PWSD #2 as a dedicated operator. On September 26, 2002, Dave married the love of his life, Brandi (Crader) Steinnerd, and together they built a family defined by love, laughter, and shared adventures. Dave is survived by his devoted wife, Brandi, and his sons, Michael Farris and Darren (Melanie) Farris of Columbia, MO; his step-son, Jon (Julianne) Steinnerd of Newburgh, IN. Dave's legacy lives on through his cherished grandchildren, Bethany Denning, Claire Farris, Riley Farris, Reagan Farris, Alanna Steinnerd, and Sawyer Steinnerd, as well as his great-grandson, Zander. A man of many talents, Dave found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid fisherman, a skilled skeet and target shooter, and a passionate golfer. His hands were rarely idle, as he indulged in the arts of blacksmithing, woodworking, model train layout, and welding. Dave had a unique gift for tinkering and adding his own creative spin to everything he touched. His Saturdays were often filled with the camaraderie of his best buddies, Jamie Wineland, Lannie Wineland, Robert Pace, Vic Maurer, Al Barbour, Tommy Hill, Jerry Benne, Terry Robb, John Arnold, and Ron Arnold, whether they were fixing cars or barbecuing. Dave was a man who never met a stranger, and his genuine love for spending time with family and friends was a testament to his kind-hearted nature. He shared an unbreakable bond with his siblings, Tammy Inman, and brothers Don, Greg, Nick, Mark, Dennis, and Daniel, along with many loving nieces and nephews. Dave is predeceased by his parents, Bill and Clara Farris, his sister, Mary Anderson, his brother, Mitch Farris, and his very special niece, Amanda Farris. While we mourn his loss, we take solace in knowing he is reunited with them. In honor of Dave's compassionate spirit, donations can be made to Yadi’s Pittie Pals, an organization close to his heart. As we bid farewell to Dave, we remember a man whose life was a testament to love, friendship, and resilience. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to inspire all who knew him. A celebration of Dave's life will be held at a later date, where stories will be shared, and his memory will be cherished by all.