Farah clothing pioneer dies

In response to JoshLegs question on the Future looks bright for Farah at fifty post

March 10, 1998

Daniel Perez
El Paso Times

William Frank "Willie" Farah, a man who used his natural mechanical aptitude and tenacity to help create an El Paso-based international clothing manufacturing company, died Monday after a lengthy illness.

Farah, 78, had been in failing health for the last four years, said his son, Jim Farah.

"He was peaceful at the end," he said.

The younger Farah remembered his father as a man of passion, whether it was flying his airplanes, working at his company or trying to improve his city.

"He loved to work," Jim Farah said.

"He grew up during the Depression and felt grateful to have a job."

Former employee Lupe Session remembered her former boss as a disciplinarian with a heart of gold.

She told a story of an employee whose wife needed to go to Houston for cancer treatment. She said Farah paid his fare and the expenses.

"He taught us that we were family," she said.

Former El Paso Mayor Jonathan Rogers laughed a few times as he recalled some land deals and golfing matches he went to with his longtime friend.

"He remembered him as a man of humor, but also marveled at his natural talents.

"Willie was a mechanical genius.

"Most of the equipment that he used either he invented or modified. He was proudest of his machine shop," he said. "He'll be missed."

William Farah, with his brother, James, built the company to be a leader in men's clothing. He retired in 1989. His brother died in 1964.

As was involved in numerous civic activities.

Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Betty Jean Corcoran Farah; four children, Jim, Kenneth, Robert and Haleen; and 10 grandchildren.

The funeral will be at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday in Pro-Cathedral Church of St. Clement, 810 N. Campbell.

The burial will be at Fort Bliss National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to the William F. Farah Memorial Fund for his favorite charities, in care of Bank of the West.

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