Walter Edward Farnam, Jr.

Walter Edward Farnam, Jr., 83, of Newtown Square, passed away peacefully at his home on January 22, 2025. Born November 7, 1941 in Johnston, RI, he was the only child of the late Walter Sr. and Florence Farnam (nee Metcalfe). Walt is pre-deceased by his beloved wife of 49 years, Carolyn (Larcom) who passed away in 2014. He was the devoted father of Robert Farnam (Susan) of Bryn Mawr, PA and Deborah Shannon (Kevin) of Sewell, NJ. Walt was adored by his five grandchildren: Katherine and William Farnam, and Rebecca, Lauren and Ryan Shannon.

Walt fondly remembered his high school years at the Moses Brown School in Providence, RI, where he was known for his quiet demeanor, ever-present smile, and excellence in mathematics. After graduating from Brown University with an AB in mathematics, he spent 22 years with Aetna Life and Casualty Co. where he became a Fellow of the Casualty Actuarial Society and spent the last five years of his tenure heading the National Accounts operations. Walt moved to Pennsylvania to head General Accident Insurance Company, first as President and Chief Operating Officer, then as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and lastly as Chairman of the Board of the CGU Insurance Company. Walt later served as Chairman of the Board of the Crozer-Keystone Health System and on the board of directors of Kingsway Financial Services, Inc. Walt’s leadership, business acumen and commitment to the community are also evidenced by his tenure on the board of directors of nearly 20 non-profits and industry organizations, frequently in the role of chairman.

Walt cherished time with his family, most especially during the family’s annual trip to Bermuda where he was known to spend more time on the moped than in his hotel room. He loved regaling his grandchildren with stories of his past, as well as cheering for them at school and sporting events. A long-term member of Aronimink Golf Club, he enjoyed golfing, swimming, scuba diving and skiing. Walt was also an avid fan of Philadelphia’s sports teams.

Family and friends will be invited to a celebration of Walt’s life at a later date. Those who wish may donate to the HMS School for Children with Cerebral Palsy - a non-profit that was particularly meaningful to Walt and where he served on the Board. https://hmsschool.org/