Austin Shawn Farner

Austin Shawn Farner was born February 6, 1998 to Paul “Jason” & Sharon (Watkins) Farner in Cheyenne, WY. He was the first of twin boys born to Jason and Sharon and the oldest of four children. Growing up in Cheyenne, Austin was involved in church, cub scouts, boys scouts, swimming, the boys and girls club, and served as student body president at South High School both his Junior and Senior year of high school. In August of 2008, at the very young age of 10, Austin was diagnosed with childhood Leukemia. This would begin a battle for him and his family that would forever change their lives. They battled the disease for three years, but eventually he was told that he was cancer free. His family rejoiced and Austin grew to be a strong young man who was full of life and adventure. He enjoyed competing on the swim team at South High School all four years of high school, hunting, camping, and fishing with his friends and family. He and his family attended many camps in the summer with other cancer survivor families at Shining Stars Foundation, Camp Wapiyapi and Imus Ranch.
Austin graduated from South High School in June 2016 and began dating the love of his life, Karrah Hartley, in April of 2017. The two were married just a few months later, on August 19, 2017. A little over a year later, Austin and Karrah were sealed for time and all eternity on December 22, 2018 in the Fort Collins Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Temple. During their first year of marriage, they found joy in exploring, meeting new friends, and growing in their love for one another. Tragically, on their first wedding anniversary their lives would forever be changed as Austin was diagnosed with a Glioblastoma Brain tumor. Austin and Karrah went through many treatments and two surgeries. Despite all the hardships, Austin did not allow cancer to define who he was. Austin was determined to live his life close to his Heavenly Father with a heart of gold willing to help everyone he could. He was always driven, goal oriented, and still continued his education to better himself. He was selfless, and never knew the incredible impact he made on everyone he met. He was magnet for goodness, a beacon of strength, and a dedicated husband, brother, and son. Austin had a love for life that shined for all to see. Heavenly Father proclaimed his admirable service completed on this Earth on December 27, 2019. The love he showed for us here on Earth surely continues in heaven.
Austin is preceded in death by his grandfather Paul C. Farner, Uncle Andrew J. Watkins, and Cousin Michael Shawn Farner. He is survived by his wife, Karrah Hartley Farner of Cheyenne; Parents, Paul Jason & Sharon Farner of Cheyenne; Brothers Conner (Tara) Farner and Bryce Farner of Cheyenne, Sister Jocelynn Farner of Cheyenne, Niece Adlee Farner of Cheyenne, Grandmother Janet Farner of Cheyenne, Grandparents Erwin & Dianne Watkins of Sheridan, WY, and plethora aunts, uncles, and cousins.
A celebration of life will be held on Friday, January 3, 2020 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 3312 E Lincolnway, Cheyenne, WY 82001. Viewing will be held from 9:00-10:30 AM. Services will begin at 11:00 AM with a graveside service to follow at Cheyenne Memorial Gardens.