Lewis Ted Gum

Lewis Ted Gum, 75, of Nixa passed away on March 26, 2026, peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Born on June 9, 1950, in Syracuse, Kan., he lived a life deeply rooted in family, faith and his passion for agriculture.

He grew up on a farm in western Kansas, where he developed a strong work ethic and an appreciation for rural life. He attended Kansas State University, majoring in agricultural journalism, and remained a devoted K-State fan for the rest of his days.

His professional journey was marked by innovation and dedication to the agricultural community. He began his career as a farm writer for the Drover’s Journal and Grass & Grain Publishing. In 1974, he helped launch Farm Talk Newspaper, a publication that continues to provide vital agricultural information to the four-state area. His vision extended beyond journalism; in 1975, he played a pivotal role in creating the first Four State Farm Show, an event that has since become a cornerstone for the region’s farming community. Building on this success, he collaborated with the Ozark Fairground staff to pioneer the inaugural Ozark Fall Farmfest in October of 1980. Both events have grown tremendously and now draw over 40,000 visitors annually to southeast Kansas and the Ozarks.

He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Barbara Gum. Together they blended their families into one on March 16, 1996. His children include Trevor (Pam) Gum and Tamara (Troy) Sears from previous marriages to Marsha Anderson (deceased) and Sandy Gum. Through his marriage to Barbara, he became a devoted stepfather to Jeremy (Shannon) Hoose, Stacy (Mike) Diamond, and Keith (fiancée Jess) Hoose. His family grew to include eight grandchildren.

He is also survived by his sisters Maxine (Bruce) Hines and Carolyn Weskamp; nephews Travis (Corinna) Hines and Andrew (Bailey) Weskamp; niece Caitlin (Danny) Cole; sister-in-law Linda (Preston) Haddan; mother-in-law Dagmar (Dale) Snodgrass; and many other extended family members who will miss him dearly.

He is preceded in death by his father, Lewis Molz Gum and his mother, Mary Ellen Gum.

A private celebration of life for family and close friends will be held at a later date.