After a life of love and quiet grace, Kenneth G. FAHRBACH of Scio, NY has passed.
A life is more than dates on a stone; here is a small portion of his story.
Kenneth spent his working life as ['Wellsville'] — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
Some answer a call. Kenneth was one of them.
Kenneth G. FAHRBACH, of Scio, NY, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 4, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born November 23, 1941, in Queens, Ken was the son of George and Anna Pfeffer Fahrbach. A 1960 graduate of Admiral Farragut Academy, he continued his education at Maine Maritime Academy, graduating in 1964. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy for over eight years, rising to the rank of Lt. Cmdr. His time in service included active duty during the Vietnam War. He was a Vietnam River Rat on the LST515, his first operation being Operation Steel Pike. After his tour of duty in Vietnam, he continued his commitment by serving in the Naval Reserves. His military career was marked by dedication, courage, and honor. Ken built a long career with Terry Corporation in Windsor, CT. He continued his career in Wellsville, serving as head of the Naval Department at Dresser Rand. In addition to living in their Genesee, PA home, Ken and Penny spent 21 years living in Windmill Village, Punta Gorda, FL, where Ken served on the WMV board and the Alligator Creek Waterway Commission. Ken spent many years racing his H Production Bugeye Sprite with the SCCA, winning multiple trophies and making friendships that lasted a lifetime. He was also part of the Austin Healey Club of America, where he was well known for his primrose yellow Austin Healey 3000. Ken was known for his wacky sense of humor. Ken and Penny loved to Jitterbug and embark on fun-filled cruises with their friends and their faithful cruising companion, Lucy the Chicken. Ken always cherished time spent with friends and family. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Penny Pritchard Fahrbach; his sister, Geogianna Argento; his children, Donald (Donna) Fahrbach, Donna Barnes, and Danielle (Thomas Stebbins) Korona; his stepchildren, Barbara (Kurt) Rechenberg, Cynthia Calabrese, and Andrew (Beatrice) Strouse; 17 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. Ken passed away on a Monday at 6:22 PM, perfectly timed to reunite with his devoted friend, Howie, who predeceased him just last year, for their weekly ritual of cigars and bourbon at 7:00 PM sharp. A private graveside service with Military Rites will be held in Whitesville Rural Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Allegany County Veterans Association or the Hart Comfort House. May the Fourth Be with You! Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust & Embser Funeral Homes & Cremation, 34 West State Street, Wellsville, NY. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.
