Published in the July 21, 2017 edition.
WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA — Lloyd Farwell was born in Concord, New Hampshire on August 15, 1922 and began what became an extraordinary life.
As a small child he moved to Wakefield, when his dad took a job working for a Boston newspaper. After graduating from Wakefield High in 1940, he enrolled at the University of New Hampshire. Following America’s entry into World War II, Lloyd enlisted in the Aviation Cadet Program at college. After graduating from fighter pilot training, he was deployed to France. His actions as a combat pilot earned him the Air Medal and the Presidential Unit Citation.
When the war ended, he remained with American troops in Europe and was assigned to run a ski lodge in Austria, which began his hotel career. Upon returning to the U.S., he re-entered the University of New Hampshire, changing his major to Hotel Administration and graduating in 1948. During his time back at college, he became reacquainted with a young lady he had dated briefly prior to going overseas – Grace Murphy. Their marriage in 1948 marked the beginning of 66 very happy years together.
After holding positions in several hotels, he became a member of the Hilton family in 1954 holding various management positions over the next 11 years. During that time Lloyd and Grace’s two sons, Wayne and Allan, joined the family.
In 1965, Lloyd was given the unique opportunity to lead the brand new Hilton franchise division. After four years in Chicago, Lloyd, Grace and the boys relocated to Los Angeles. Lloyd rose to senior vice president of franchise and development and remained in that position until retiring in 1989. During those years, he was a hotel industry leader with positions that included chairman of the International Franchise Association.
Upon retirement, Lloyd and Grace, along with their sons, Wayne’s wife Pam, and their grandchildren enjoyed many wonderful times together, especially during the holiday season. They also remained very active members of the University of New Hampshire Alumni Association, visiting the school regularly and actively participating in key committees. In 2011, Lloyd was honored as one of the first two recipients of the UNH Hospitality School’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
Lloyd and Grace moved to senior living in 2009, where they continued to enjoy life for several years. Grace died in 2015, with Lloyd passing away on June 24, 2017. He is survived by his two sons, Wayne and Allan, his daughter-in-law, Pam and three grandchildren, Ashley, Jennifer and Jonathan.
