Business tycoon Sir Tom Farmer, founder of Kwik Fit, passes away at 84, family confirms.
Spirited Scot Tom Farmer Lives On as a Business Legend and Generous Philanthropist algo, 2023-08-23
In the heart of Scotland, a towering Scotsman has bid adieu at the tender age of 84. Sir Thomas Farmer, a man of many accomplishments and limitless spirit, departed from his Edinburgh home on a fateful Friday. The news of his passing left a vast, somber echo that rippled through various corners of Scottish and British society.
The tireless patriarch, who commanded the Kwik Fit empire, also had a director stint at MyTravel Group and Scottish Power. He held the reins of Hibernian Football Club for an astounding 28 precious years, before selling his prized stake to a US business magnate, Ron Gordon, in 2019.
In an official statement released on Saturday, the family revealed the far-reaching influence of Sir Tom's life and career, which had touched myriad aspects of Scottish and the UK's life. They took a moment to honor the philanthropic endeavors of the man who would forever be remembered.
"Sir Thomas never shied away from the limelight," the family shared, "He was a family man at heart. Born in the vibrant district of Leith, Edinburgh, in 1940, he was the youngest of seven children. He often spoke of the love, care, and attention he received from such a large family."
Navigating the waters of entrepreneurship from a humble beginning, the perpetually youthful Sir Tom gave life to Kwik Fit in 1971. Fueled by unrelenting determination, he steered the garage chain toward an international juggernaut, before eventually selling it to Ford for a whopping £1 billion in 1999 – a testament to his vision and strategic prowess.
For his ceaseless contributions to the automotive industry, Sir Tom was bestowed with a knighthood in 1997. In 2009, he was installed as a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order, in acknowledgement of his voluminous charitable works, including his tenure as the chairman of the board of trustees for the Duke of Edinburgh's Award.
A shining star on the philanthropic horizon, Sir Tom was the first Scot to receive the prestigious Andrew Carnegie Medal for his philanthropic pursuits. Elevated by the Catholic Church, he was also made a Knight Commander with Star of the Order of St Gregory the Great.
Upon hearing of his demise, Kwik Fit released a poignant statement, sending grief-stricken waves through the company. "We are heartbroken and devastated," the statement read, "Sir Tom will always remain a colossal figure in our industry. His entrepreneurial spirit transformed the UK automotive aftermarket scene, paving the way for the foundations we now stand upon."
Although Sir Tom's direct connection with the company ended over two decades ago, the principles he instilled continue to resonate with many members of the Kwik Fit team.
Sir Thomas was blessed with three brothers and three sisters, numerous nieces and nephews, and the family took pride in being the guardians of their extended family. He wed Anne in 1966 after they serendipitously met at their local church, forming a sacred bond that lasted 57 years until her death in 2023.
In later years, when asked about the source of his success, Sir Tom would often cite his wife, Anne, as the driving force. "In all honesty," he once said, "I married a woman like Anne. She was my light, my guiding star, and the secret to my success."
Their family recounts their long married life spent in Edinburgh and mourns their survival by their two children and four grandchildren. Their faith, a precious touchstone for Sir Tom, was always present in all areas of his existence. He regularly attended mass in Edinburgh, reveling in the companionship of his Catholic community, both locally and globally.
"Sir Thomas will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, his work, and his faith, and for his enduring pride in his Scottish heritage," the family concluded.
Hibernian Football Club also extended their condolences, stating, "Hibernian FC are shattered to learn of the passing of former owner Sir Tom Farmer, aged 84. Thank you for everything, Tom. Rest in peace." The family requested privacy during this difficult time.
Press Association.
- The entrepreneurial spirit of Sir Thomas Farmer, the late Scottish business magnate, transcended beyond the realm of finance and Kwik Fit, as he once held the position of Hibernian Football Club's chairman for 28 years.
- reminiscing about his remarkable life, it is worth noting that Sir Thomas Farmer, the legendary Scot and philanthropist, was not just a pillar of Scottish business and finance, but also a steadfast supporter of sports, particularly football, as evidenced by his long association with Hibernian Football Club.
