Local celebrity celebrates 92nd birthday

Brian Trauring

**Jamie Farr** makes a stop at Tony Packo’s whenever he pays a visit to his hometown.

Toledo’s hometown star says he is thankful for an extraordinary life as he celebrates his 92nd birthday in July. ”Ninety-two is very exciting for me. I did not know that I would reach this far,” he told Brian Trauring of WSYL Radio in Sylvania. “I know I’m slowing down quite a bit. I don’t do as many things as I used to do. I just try to keep moving, keep exercising because if you don’t do it, that pain just comes into you.” Although macular degeneration prevents him from driving, he still enjoys making occasional public appearances at conventions.

The Woodward High School graduate, best known for his starring role on MASH, helped raise millions for children’s charities through the Jamie Farr LPGA Classic at Sylvania’s Highland Meadows Golf Club. “We enjoyed that so much. I can’t tell you what a treat that was for me to be able to have that golf tournament, to host the tournament and then to be with all the people and friends that we had.” His wife of 63 years, Joy, often accompanied him to Sylvania and Toledo for the tournament.

Farr has experienced success professionally and professionally. His role as Max Klinger from Toledo made him a star on MASH.

The hit show ran from 1972 to 1983 featuring Jamie, Loretta Swit, Harry Morgan, Mike Farrell, Gary Burghoff and Alan Alda. “All of them are wonderful. I sit there and watch the show and marvel at the talent that they had and the love, you know, not only for the show and that you’re working but the love of the character that they were playing.”

He was recently honored by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Toledo with an Echo Award. Farr was a regular there while growing up and remained involved with the organization. He brought recognition to Toledo on MAS*H with references to the Mud Hens baseball team, Tony Packo’s restaurant and places around the city. It was one way to express his appreciation for growing up in a place that was neighborly. “I just absolutely loved it, absolutely enjoyed it. I still have fond memories of it. I tell you stories and can almost see everything in my mind that I’m talking about.”