At about 10:15 p.m. on Wednesday night, I began to receive messages about Ed Farmer reportedly passing away. This morning, I woke up to find that to be sadly true.
Farmer was 70 years old. He had an 11-year MLB career, including three seasons with the White Sox from 1979-1981, as well as a nearly 30-year broadcasting career.
In 1991, “Farmio” became the color commentator for White Sox radio games, and his distinctive low-toned, calming broadcast voice was distinctive all across the city. It made White Sox fans feel at home, and could be heard on air waves throughout the country. I cannot tell you the number of times I have been outside of Chicago, states away, and tuned to 670, 890, or 720 (depending on the year) and began to feel right at home, listening to White Sox baseball through the voice of Ed Farmer.
Ed was born and raised in Chicago, grew up a White Sox fan, and went to St. Rita High School on the city’s South Side. He later became a pitcher in the Major Leagues, and eventually, the radio voice of his all-time favorite baseball team. He had the dream life of almost any Chicago kid. As someone who also has been born and raised in the Windy City, grew up a White Sox fan, and attended a Catholic boys high school, I have a few things in common with the late broadcaster.
Growing up, my dad took me to SoxFest almost annually. For those who don’t know, SoxFest is an annual White Sox fan fest, where dozens of current and former White Sox players, team personnel and management interact with Sox fans. Ed did this every year I went. And man oh man, was he a wonderful person. He never turned anyone down from an autograph, he was always willing to have a conversation (White Sox baseball or not), and never failed to have a smile on his face. In 2009, I went to one of his autograph sessions. I already had his signature on a ball and jersey, but I brought one of my autographed baseball bats to have him sign as well.
At this point, I began to consider a career. I was young, but the plans still haven’t changed to this day—my lifelong dream is to be a play-by-play announcer for one of my favorite teams. I asked Ed’s advice on how to get started and if he had any tips. He talked with me for a solid 5 minutes, holding up the line behind my dad and I, talking on and on about announcing the game he and I both cherish and love. It was truly a moment I’ll never forget.
Ed may be gone, but his legacy, and his many iconic calls of White Sox history will never be forgotten. His iconic “Swing and a long one to left! It’s gonna go! It’s a slam! Sox lead! 6-4! Light it up!” of Paul Konerko’s grand slam in Game 2 of the 2005 World Series will never be forgotten.
On behalf of all White Sox fans, thank you for sharing your knowledge of the game to us over the airwaves. Thanks for allowing millions of fans use their imagination as you painted a picture of the game we all love, and just for being Ed Farmer. In addition, thank you for being the perfect role model for future broadcasters, like myself.
Here’s to you, “Farmio.” I hope to have half the broadcasting career you’ve had. May you rest in peace, and go White Sox.
Featured Edit: Brandon Anderson/Sox On 35th
