Keith Franklin Farber

Keith F. Farber, 86, of Oconomowoc, passed peacefully in his sleep on November 3, 2025. Born in Galveston, Texas, on April 22, 1939, he was the second of two sons. His family moved several times, finally settling in Illinois.

Keith graduated from Winona State with a degree in education. He taught shop for several years in Minnesota before starting his career as a textbook salesman. Keith and his first wife Kathy moved to Oconomowoc in the 70’s where they raised their 2 children. Kathy passed in 1989. After his retirement from sales he continued work at Office Max and Hat Creek Candle. In 2003 he married his second wife, Diane, which immediately put him in the role of grandpa- a role which he perfected!

Keith’s greatest pleasures were found in family gatherings, fishing, and riding his Harley. He loved building whatever you needed and could fix anything. He also loved to tell long stories. Keith was a definite role model as a father, husband, neighbor, and friend.

Keith is survived by his loving wife, Diane Farber; Children Kari (Dan) Barnes and Kirk (Kelly) Farber; stepchildren Dawn (Richard) Wolf and Dan (Kelly) Schuett; Grandchildren Nina Barnes, Emma Farber, Violet Farber, Jacob (Nicki) Brown, Cassie (Ben) Shimel, and Kamrin (Brian) Hloska; Great-Grandchildren Lily Brown, Colton Shimel, Kasen Shimel, and Carter Hloska. Keith is further survived by his brother Kenneth (Janet) Farber; Brothers-in-law Don Odell, John (Joyce) Lynch and Bill Simon; Sisters-in-law Pat Skelton and Jackie Weber; and best friend Mike McGuire.

Keith is preceded in death by his first wife Kathy Farber, his parents Oscar and Hazel Farber, his sisters-in-law Mary Simon, Lou Ann Odell, and Sharon Lynch. As well as his brother-in-law Boots Skelton.

A memorial service will be held on November 18, 2025. At Pagenkopf Funeral Home (2228 N Silver Maple Ln, Oconomowoc, WI 53066) from 10:00am-12:00pm with a service to follow. Following the service, family invites you to join them for a light lunch.

In lieu of flowers, Keith’s family asks memorials to be designated to Angels Grace Hospice and Tunnels to Towers.