Louis Farrell

Louis “Louie” E. Farrell, age 94 of White Bear Lake, took his last breath while surrounded by family on February 22, 2026.

Louie was born on December 5, 1931 in Fargo, ND. He was the only child of Frederick and Fern Farrell. Louie attended high school in Bismark, ND before going on to college in Bozeman, MT. After a year, he joined the U.S. Marines.

Louis was an accomplished pilot with numerous achievements in aviation. In 1955 he was a part of Operation Tea Pot, flying through the atomic test bomb in the F9F-5’s Panther. Then, in 1956, he broke the speed of sound in the FJ2 Fury as part of the Mach Busters Club. Louis was a chief pilot for 17 years. After his time in the Marines, Louie piloted for several airlines, including North Central, Republic, and Northwest. After an accomplished career he retired in 1991 at the age of 60.

Although Louie had a great love for the sky, he also enjoyed the water; he sailed on Bald Eagle Lake, Lake Superior, and the Atlantic. Louis even joined his sons on the Trans Superior International Yacht Race (the world’s longest freshwater sailboat race.) However, he made the most out of the land as well by hunting with his Ram group and his children. He would take his children up to Mille Lacs to stay in the A Frame and hunt, but he also took them on many ski trips in Colorado. In fact, all 6 of his children moved to Colorado at some point in their lives as a result of fun family memories there.

While Louis may be known for his adventurous spirit and accomplishments, it’s his heart and care for others that he will be remembered by. He hired one of the first women airline pilots, and was an advocate for affirmative action to encourage airlines to hire from minority groups—including women and African American pilots. Louie’s compassion and empathy (coupled with a determined spirit) will forever be known by everyone he has met.

Louis is survived by wife Geri, who he spent 69 wonderful years with; as well as children Tracy, Tammy Carrigan, Kelly, Chris, Leigh, and Alex; 15 grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren.

A Time of Gathering will be held at Mueller Memorial 4738 Bald Eagle Ave, White Bear Lake on Wednesday, March 4 from 4-7 pm. Please join the family for Lou Mannes and light appetizers!

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to HealthPartners Hospice 8170 33rd Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55425 or the American Lung Association