Vice-Mayor Farris Passes Away

Sitting Vice-Mayor and City Commissioner J. David Farris passed away Sunday, with the cause of death still unreleased at this time.

EMS was called to Farris’ residence on Saturday morning. Farris, 83, was responsive and was taken to Amberwell Hospital and eventually transferred to University of Kansas Medical Center later Saturday. He had been dealing with a variety of health issues.

“Dave has been a constant in Atchison for many decades. His commitment to moving Atchison forward was always on the forefront of his decision-making.” Mayor Abby Bartlett said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and many friends as they go through this difficult time.”

Farris was elected to the City Commission in 2019, earning a four-year term as the second-highest vote getter. This was his first term as a commissioner.

Farris retired from his career practicing law in 2019. He served as the Atchison City Attorney from 1990-2015 and had a private practice in Atchison. Details on services and a full obituary are still pending.