National University of Health Sciences (NUHS) joins the family and international naturopathic medicine (ND) community in mourning the loss of Gerry Farnsworth, DC, ND. Dr. Farnsworth held the distinction of being National’s last graduate of the old ND program (ending in 1952), and was a legend, role model, and inspiration in the field of naturopathic medicine. He was also kind enough to visit campus and spend a week with the NUHS community-particularly our students–not once, but twice.

Dr. Gerry Farnsworth passed away October 6, 2018, surrounded by his family, at the age of 90. He was the youngest of four children, born January 24, 1928, in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Canada. Dr. Farnsworth dedicated his life to naturopathic medicine, and is recognized by U.S. and Canadian colleges and universities as a pioneer of the profession.

In 1950, following his graduation from chiropractic college in Toronto and National University (then National College of Drugless Physicians in Chicago) he established and maintained his practice for more than 60 years in Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada. Dr. Farnsworth served thousands of patients with naturopathic medical care, specializing in cardiovascular, laboratory and physical medicine, and women’s health. His son Todd continues his legacy.

Dr. Farnsworth’s dedication to the field of naturopathic medicine is exemplary. So strong was his commitment to the profession that he was once mortgaged his family home to help establish the National College of Natural Medicine (NCNM) in Portland, Oregon. He also served the college as a contributing faculty member, commuting weekly for more than 20 years at his own expense from British Columbia to Portland.

Dr. Farnsworth’s interests included flying, fishing, hunting, and, his mule and many “grand dogs.” He also enjoyed traveling in his RV finding new roads, blending his love of travel with his dedication to visiting family and friends. He is fondly and respectfully remembered, and will be greatly missed.