Ronald Augustus Farnell

Ronald Augustus Farnell, 89, died at home on Saturday, September 26, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Known as Ron to his friends, Mr. Farnell to his children’s friends and many in Everett, and Papa to his family, he was born in Georgetown, Massachusetts, to Annie Buckley and Harold Farnell. One of 17 children, he grew up in Somerville and made Everett his home for 60 years. He and his wife, Judy, later lived in Naples, Florida, before moving to Salt Lake City to be near family.

Ron served in the Army National Guard. He sold advertising for the Record American newspaper. He spent most of his career in the advertising department at Wilmington Ford.

Ron loved sports and created opportunities for Everett children to play them. He started the Everett Youth League, a baseball league for children ages 9 to 12, and coached CYO basketball for boys and girls, as well as baseball, for many years. He was also active in local politics, working on campaigns, supporting candidates and attending city meetings. For his 80th birthday in 2016, the Everett City Council and mayor presented him with a citation calling him “Everyone’s Favorite Coach.” In 2019, the mayor presented him with a key to the city.

Ron made friends wherever he went. A quick one-liner, a clever joke or a story was often all he needed to make someone laugh.

He is survived by his wife, Judith Ann Farnell; his daughter, Sharon Lombardo, and her husband, Thomas; his son, Rick Farnell, and his wife, Alix; his grandchildren, Olivia and her husband, Anthony, Ross, Taylor and Jake; and a great-granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his son, Ronnie Farnell.

Wake services will be held Friday, October 2, from 6 to 8 p.m., and Saturday, October 3, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., at Memorial Millcreek Mortuary, 3251 South 2300 East, Millcreek, Utah 84109. A funeral Mass will follow at 2 p.m. at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 1375 East Spring Lane, Holladay, Utah. A Celebration of Life ceremony is being planned for the Spring of 2027 in Everett.