Kenneth Gene Faris

Gene was born at Indiana Springs, Indiana on September 13, 1926. He was the son of Forrest and Opal (Sargent) Faris. His mother died when he was two years old. A wonderful step-mother, Elizabeth Chastain, in fact became his mother. Gene died on Thursday evening at home. Gene graduated from Campbellsburg High School after attending school for 3 ½ years. He was named to the Indiana High School all-star basketball team for the 1944 season. He entered Indiana University after graduating from high school. He was awarded three varsity letters in basketball, and led the team in scoring during the 1944-1945 season. He received three degrees from Indiana University-BS, MS, and Ed.D. Gene served two tours of duty in the armed services. His university attendance was interrupted when he was called to serve in 1945. He graduated from OCS at Ft. Knox Kentucky and was commissioned a 2nd Lt. in the Armored field. He served in Germany during his tour of duty. He was again called to serve during the Korean War. Gene is survived by his wife; Betty, his children; Jane Newborn (Barry), Kathy Parrott, Linda Webb (Mark), Mike Faris (Steve Poynter), grandchildren; Lauren Newborn, Darin Newborn, Jason Newborn, Kristin Newborn, Kourtney Parrott, Kassady Parrott, Rachael Burnworth (Josh), and Emilee Webb. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren; Jayla Hutton, Devon Newborn, Tony Newborn, and Amiyah Newborn, sister, Lois Shively (John) of Tampa, Florida and many nieces and nephews. Gene married his second grade sweetheart, Betty Jane (Rosenbaum) Faris on July 10, 1948. As Gene said on many occasions, Betty didn't turn an eye in his direction until they were third year students at Indiana University. They celebrated 65 wonderful years together. Gene started his professional career as a high school teacher and coach. His first position was at Montpelier High School, which was interrupted by his call to service during the Korean War. On release from the service, he joined the faculty at University High School as a teacher and coach. Due to health, he had to give up his coaching job and joined the staff of the Indiana University Audio-Visual Center and the faculty of the School of Education. During his 37 year career at Indiana University he served in many roles including Professor of Education (Instructional Systems Technology), Dean for Learning Resources, Executive Assistant to two Presidents, Grand Marshall of the University and Executive Director of the Indiana Higher Education Telecommunication System. Gene received many outside grants to support his great interest in the use of new technologies in secondary and higher education classrooms. He published widely in his area of professional interest and received numerous commendations for his work. Upon retirement, he was awarded the President's Medal for Excellence by Indiana University. Gene was a member of St. Mark's United Methodist Church. There will be an open-house Celebration of Life 1-4pm Sunday November 17, 2013 at the Allen Funeral Home 4155 S. Old State Road 37 Bloomington, IN. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, or I.U. Health Bloomington Hospital Hospice. Allen Funeral Home is handling arrangements. Friends can send condolences to www.allenfuneralhome.org

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Kenneth Gene Faris

September 13, 1926 - November 14, 2013