Farmer Mac today mourns the loss of Board Member Roy H. Tiarks, who died on February 4, 2025, at the age of 74. Mr. Tiarks, a fourth-generation farmer from Council Bluffs, Iowa, joined Farmer Mac’s Board in May 2021 as a member elected by the holders of Farmer Mac’s Class B voting common stock. He was also a longtime board leader within the Farm Credit System who dedicated his career to advocating for the needs of America’s farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. His deep understanding of agriculture and unwavering commitment to its future contributed strongly to our Board, our company, and our industry.
“It is with deep sorrow that we acknowledge the passing of Roy Tiarks, a distinguished member of our Board of Directors, respected colleague, and treasured friend,” said Farmer Mac Board Chair Lowell L. Junkins. “Roy spent his life pursuing his passion as a working farmer and also tirelessly served on the boards of organizations dedicated to serving rural America. His extensive board leadership experience, profound understanding of American agriculture, and steadfast passion for our company’s mission left an indelible mark on Farmer Mac. His passing is a great loss not only to Farmer Mac but to all who were fortunate to know him.”
At the time of Mr. Tiarks’ death, he had been serving as chair of the Enterprise Risk Committee of Farmer Mac’s Board and as a member of the Board’s Business Development and Business Strategy Committee and the Board’s Credit Committee. Farmer Mac’s statutory charter authorizes Farmer Mac’s Board to fill the vacancy for the unexpired portion of Mr. Tiarks’ term that ends in May 2025. The Board plans to meet in the near future to discuss the possibility of filling the vacancy before Farmer Mac’s next annual meeting of stockholders in May, at which Mr. Tiarks’ Board seat will be filled by a vote of the holders of Class B voting common stock.