It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of King Charles’ longtime friend, Ian Farquhar. A renowned huntsman, Ian Farquhar passed away peacefully at his home at the age of 78.
In addition to his distinguished role in the hunting community, Ian Farquhar served as the Queen Mother’s equerry, demonstrating his dedication and service to the royal family. His illustrious career also included service in the Queen’s Own Hussars, a distinguished cavalry regiment of the British Army. His legacy is marked by his unwavering commitment to tradition, duty, and friendship.
King Charles, already grappling with his own cancer diagnosis, has suffered yet another blow with the recent passing of Lord Jacob Rothschild at the age of 87. Lord Rothschild, a prominent figure in the financial world and a close confidant of the King, leaves behind a legacy of philanthropy and dedication to the arts and heritage conservation. His passing marks a significant loss for both the royal family and the many communities he influenced throughout his remarkable life.
Brigadier Andrew Parker Bowles, the first husband and friend of Queen Camilla, expressed his sorrow over the loss of Ian Farquhar in a statement to the Mail’s Richard Eden. He noted that Farquhar had been in poor health for the past few months, describing the situation as “very sad.”
Parker Bowles reminisced about his late friend, saying Farquhar was “wild as a hawk in his youth, but always great fun.” He added that “The Captain,” as Farquhar was affectionately known, will be “judged by history as one of the great Masters of Hounds.”
The connection between Farquhar and King Charles deepened when Prince William briefly dated Farquhar’s daughter, Rose, in 2000 after completing his A-levels at Eton. This close-knit relationship highlights the personal and familial bonds that intertwined their lives over the years.
Ian Farquhar and King Charles first met at the Beaufort Polo Club in Gloucestershire, and at that time, Farquhar’s daughter Rose was described as Prince William’s “first love.” William and Rose enjoyed romantic picnics in the Gloucestershire countryside before he met Kate Middleton at St. Andrews University in Scotland. Their friendship endured, with Prince William attending Rose’s wedding to George Gemmell in 2022.
Mr. Farquhar served as the Master of the Beaufort Hunt for 34 years, overseeing the West Country’s oldest and largest fox hunt. His leadership and passion for the hunt were widely respected and admired.
Following his passing, a heartfelt tribute was posted on Instagram, featuring a video montage of Ian Farquhar’s life. The caption read, “It is with broken hearts we send our love and condolences to the family and friends of our own Captain Ian Farquhar, who so brilliantly piloted us for 34 years and passed away peacefully this week.”
The post fondly remembered him as “Captain,” a title by which he was affectionately known within the hunting community. It highlighted his supportiveness, kindness, and his excellent forward-thinking advice, as well as his wicked sense of humor. Those who had the privilege of hearing his tales of a varied and adventurous life, both in the army and in the hunting world, will cherish those memories forever.
The tribute also noted that Mr. Farquhar’s passions were his hounds, his family, and his dogs, describing him as a “true countryman and gent.” His legacy in the hunting community and beyond is marked by his dedication, warmth, and the indelible impact he had on those around him.
