Richard A. "Rick" Farrenkopf, 61, of Derry, NH, passed away Wednesday October 9, 2019 at Newton Wellesley Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Like with most people who have lost their battle with cancer, their battle may be described as "long and courageous". However, in Rick's case, this description would not do it justice. Rick had a lot to fight for, and was stubborn as the day is long. Cancer has met its match. Rick's battle with cancer was nothing like anyone has ever seen. He defied the laws of nature, fighting multiple battles over years and years. When cancer would rear its ugly head, Rick would come back, repeatedly, and state "I'm still in the ring". His family, friends and many of the distinguished amazing oncologists who cared for him, would shake their head in disbelief but grateful he was still among the living. Let us just say that Rick did not lose his battle with cancer, that Rick and Cancer called a truce. Nobody won that battle, but Rick was awarded peace for his valiant effort.
Rick was born in Boston, MA on May 20, 1958, a son of the late James and Shirley (Dowd) Farrenkopf. Rick was a distinguished student throughout his life, and graduated from Noble and Greenough School and Tufts University. He later received his master’s degree from Southern NH University. He proudly worked for Digital Equipment Corporation and there he met the love of his life; Tracey. He was a dedicated employee for 21 years and considered it the best company he ever worked for.
Rick and Tracey raised three amazing children. For Rick, family meant everything to him which was his drive and motivation to stay on this earth. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle and spending time with his family and especially his Golden Retrievers; Lucky, Merlin and Scooby. He was involved in all his children’s activities from scouts, to soccer and hockey. He coached and umpired for Derry Little League for many years. Rick was elected to the Derry School Board and was able to give back to the community with his strong belief of the importance of education.
Until his retirement just this past summer, Rick was the Director of Technology for the Nashua, NH School District. Rick hired the most amazing group of people that he considered his second family. Leaving this team to retire for health reasons was one of the most difficult things for Rick to do. He was a true leader and did not want to leave his team.
His family will never be able to fill the void he has left; but the void will be filled with many memories of family holidays and vacations to the beach. He will be remembered as a strong, courageous and loving man, one hell of a fighter, but a terrible singer, but that did not stop him from singing of course.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 36 years, Tracey (Carroll) Farrenkopf of Derry; two sons, Timothy C. Farrenkopf of Santa Monica, CA and Daniel R. Farrenkopf of Derry, one daughter, Chelsea C. Farrenkopf of Derry, step-mother, Margaret Farrenkopf of Weymouth, MA, two step-sisters, Kathy Hunt of Weymouth, Eleanor Langdon of West Roxbury, MA; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and extended family. He was predeceased by his brother James J. Farrenkopf Jr.
There are no calling hours. The family will hold a service of remembrance on Saturday, November 9, 2019 from 12:00 until 3:00pm at the Knights of Columbus hall in Wilmington, MA. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Vernon Cancer Center, C/O Newton Wellesley Hospital, 2014 Washington Street, Newton, MA 02462.