Alan J. Farling, an honor student and 1964 graduate of Wayland High School, has died at the age of 71.

He was born Feb. 26, 1946, in Bryon, Ohio, son of the late Doyle and Elizabeth Farling. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan and a master’s degree in engineering from Old Dominion University.

He was a retired State of Delaware employee and served 20 years in the U. S. Navy, retiring as a Lt. Commander. He also served for 34 years as a member of the Robbins Hose Company in Dover, DE. During his time as a firefighter, he held numerous positions within the Fire Dept. He also worked as an instructor at the Delaware State Fire School.

Alan worked at Dover International Speedway for over 20 years. He was a valued member of the Fire/Rescue team providing protection at all NASCAR races and other track sanctioned events. He was also involved as a founding member of Delaware Micro-Computer from its inception in 2004 until this year.

He is survived by his wife Cari (O’Neill) Farling, also a Wayland High School graduate, daughter Monica M. Farling (Dover, DE), son Alex J. Farling (Stevensville, MD), sister Diane Scearce (Leominster, MA) and sister Debra Hebert (Leominster, MA).

Services will beat 4:30 p.m.  Saturday, Oct. 7, at Robbins Hose Co. #1 / Dover Fire Dept. 103 South Governors Ave. Dover, DE 19901. Family and friends may call from 2 pm till time of services.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to Robbins Hose Company/Dover Fire Dept, 103 S Governors Ave, Dover, DE 19901. Letters of condolences may be sent to www.traderfh.comTrader Funeral Home 12 Lotus Street Dover, DE www.traderfh.com