Marsha Farnham, a member of the Gowrie Grocery LLC Board, is pictured in the aisles of the Market on Market grocery store in Gowrie in a photo taken by Hans Madsen. Farnham played an active role in the community effort to establish a grocery store in Gowrie.
This article was originally published in a special publication called Hometown Pride on June 24, 2023, highlighting individuals and organizations in Fort Dodge and the surrounding area who are making a positive impact in their communities.
In downtown Gowrie, while engaging in a conversation with a customer at her Farm & Country Insurance office, Marsha Farnham suddenly stood up from her desk. It was at that moment that one of the signs of her community service became evident. She wears a pager on her waist which will loudly call her to respond to emergency medical service calls with the Southwest Webster Emergency Medical Service.
One might wonder what happens if she receives a page in the middle of her work day. Farnham promptly answers the call, ensuring that she fulfills her duties as an EMT. To inform others of her absence, she has a sign on her office door that reads, “Gone on an ambulance call.” Recently, she even upgraded the sign by laminating it.
Farnham has been a certified EMT since 2005 and joined the ambulance service in 2001. Over time, she realized that the people they were serving and helping were often the same individuals who would stop and talk to her in the community. Recognizing the need, she decided to step up and take on the responsibility of an EMT, understanding that in a small town, one wears many hats to keep the community functioning smoothly.
During her tenure on the ambulance squad, Farnham has witnessed numerous changes, such as the transition from paper forms to online communication, which enables the waiting hospital staff to access patient reports before the ambulance arrives. However, one thing remains constant – the adrenaline rush that propels her to perform her duties. She acknowledges the crucial role of her exceptional crew and expresses the continuous need for volunteers to support the ambulance service.
In addition to her involvement with the ambulance service, Farnham leads an active life within her community. She is married to Trent Farnham and they have two children, Morgan and Grant. Farming is also an integral part of their family business, although she jokingly claims to take credit for it without actively participating.
Farnham currently serves as the leader of the Gowrie Groundbreakers 4-H Club. Having been in 4-H since fourth grade, Farnham’s children also became involved, and she was eventually asked to co-lead the club. She finds great satisfaction in witnessing the growth and development of the club’s members, observing how their communication skills and confidence evolve through their various projects.
As an active community member, Farnham takes on multiple roles. She currently serves as the secretary of the Gowrie Development Commission and is a member of its Downtown Committee. Engaging with both the Gowrie Groundbreakers 4-H Club and the Downtown Committee, Farnham has been instrumental in coordinating joint projects. One such collaboration involved club members planting flowers in the downtown planters, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the business district.
Additionally, Farnham serves on the Gowrie Grocery LLC Board. This board oversees the operation of the Market on Market grocery store, which opened in April 2020 after the community raised $250,000 to purchase it from the previous owner, Nick Graham. The store was in danger of closure at the time, making the community’s efforts all the more significant. Farnham expresses her pride in the store’s success and the ongoing support it receives from local customers.
In her own words, Farnham invites others to get involved in their communities, emphasizing the impact that can be made through volunteering. She believes that everyone has the power to create positive change and values the collective collaboration that exists in her community.
Alongside her community engagements, Farnham is also a member of the Zion Lutheran Church, where she participates in the hand-bell choir, finding enjoyment in the musical experience.
In summary, Marsha Farnham’s commitment to serving her community in various roles reflects her dedication to making a difference. Whether responding to emergency medical calls, leading a 4-H club, contributing to downtown development, or supporting the local grocery store, Farnham exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism and encourages others to step up and make their own impact.