Clyde “Duck” R. Farmer of Bourbon, MO passed away on Tuesday, April 7, 2009 at the age of 78 years.
He was born ninth of 11 children to William and Grace Farmer on March 7, 1931 in Hurryville, MO.  He graduated from Flat River High School and was a member of the “49-ers.” Duck excelled at basketball, where he caught the eye of a young Tiny McGeorge who was attracted to Duck’s pretty legs.
Duck joined the service in 1948 with his friend, Casey Hovis. Stationed at Fort Bliss, TX, his career as the poet laureate of the Farmer family began with the writing of “Desert Soldiers.”
As a member of the Reserves, he was called back into active duty and sent almost immediately to Korea. Blown from a cliff by friendly fire, Duck was captured by the Red army. After spending 27 months in the desperate and hopeless conditions of a communist prisoner of war camp, he was released when a treaty was signed.
Duck returned to Flat River and received a well-deserved hero’s welcome. A parade was given in his honor and September 19, 1953 was declared “Duck Farmer Day.”
Duck married his high school sweetheart, Myrtle “Tiny” McGeorge, on September 20, 1953 and to this most blessed union seven children, 14 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren were born. Duck and Tiny were married 55 years and seven months.
Duck was a loving husband, an amazing father, involved grandfather, a dedicated uncle and a fierce and loyal friend. He was an avid hunter and fisherman; but mostly enjoyed spending time with those he loved.
He could barbecue a pork steak so tender you never needed a knife. His talents and wisdom were endless. His was love abounding and eternal.
Today, the world has one less hero, but heaven has gained one.
He is survived by his wife, Myrtle M. (McGeorge) Farmer, of the family home; four daughters, Vickie Marie Bates and husband, David, of Rolla, Anna Ruth Biggins and husband, Mike, of Sullivan, Myra Kay Ruff of Greenforest, AR and Sarah Farmer of Bourbon; one son, Clyde “Magoo” Farmer, Jr. and wife, Peggy, of Bourbon; two brothers, Melvin R. Farmer of Desloge, MO and Randell M. Farmer and wife, Shermadene, of DeSoto, MO; 14 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; other relatives and friends.
Clyde was preceded in death by his parents and two daughters, Deborah Louise Farmer and Nancy Elaine Daugherty.
A memorial service with Reverend Leo Shumaker officiating, with full military honors, was held for Clyde Farmer on Saturday, April 11, 2009 at 3 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church of Bourbon.
Clyde’s memorial website is available at www.eatonfuneralhome.com where condolences may be sent to the family.
All arrangements were under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan, MO.