William Richard Farmer

Farmer, William Richard (Rick)- age 65 of Knoxville, went peacefully in his home to meet his heavenly father on June 22, 2022. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, who will be greatly missed.

Rick is preceded in death by his loving parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bud and Betty Farmer, sister Janie Farmer and brother Bobby Farmer, sister in law Amy Farmer, Mary Anne Mitchell(aunt and second mother), cousin Brian Lee Mitchell, father and mother in law Bill and Mary Rose Hurst; He is survived by his devoted and attentive wife who he actually asked to grow old with him and not just marry Kim Farmer; children Richard Farmer(Marissa), Allison Ackermann(Kurt), and Drew Barncord(Jill); grandchildren whom he loved dearly, Taylor Ackermann and Brady Ackermann; siblings Margaret Dyke(Larry), Steve Farmer(Penny), Tracy Bryan(Felix), nephews and nieces Jamie Cash(Janice), Jenifer Marks(Justin), and Courtney Wright(Thomas), Margaret Bryan and Travis Bryan, sweet great nieces and nephews, in laws Diane Helton(Hurdle), Greg Hurst, Lisa Hurst, and many lifelong friends.

Rick was born and raised in Knoxville. He grew up involved in sports, specifically baseball and hockey. Many of his younger days were spent at the Ice Chalet and Rocky Hill ballpark. He attended West High School where he played baseball. Right after high school he went to Canada with his longtime friend Larry to play in the Ontario Hockey League. He eventually made his way back to Knoxville where he attended Roane State and played baseball. He went on to Iona College to pursue his degree while playing baseball and hockey.

As he got older and finished up his playing days he wasn’t done with sports. He helped with the Knoxville Ice Bears and became a baseball umpire. He ended up umpiring little kids all the way up to college.

In his free time, he and his wife frequently visited Cades Cove with their sweet dog Rosie, looking for deer and bears. He also loved watching his grandkids and great nephew play their sports.

On behalf of Rick, the family would like to thank UT Hospice Care. All the nurses and staff took such good care of him.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Humane Society of Tennessee Valley, Central High School Baseball Team. Venmo @Central-Baseball, and/or The Ice Chalet in Knoxville, TN.

The family will receive friends Saturday, June 25 from 5-7 at Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home at 2300 Adair Dr. Knoxville, TN 37918 with a memorial service to follow. Rev. Joe Emmert officiating. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.berrylynnhurst.com