Rooted in Tradition
“People often ask why you keep doing it. Farming is in your blood.”
For Ryan and Julie Facemire, farming isn’t simply a business — it’s a way of life rooted in generations of hard work, perseverance and a deep connection to the land.
As eighth-generation farmers, Ryan and Julie understand both the challenges and rewards that come with agriculture. Long days, unpredictable weather and fluctuating markets are all part of the job, yet their passion for farming remains as strong as ever. That dedication is evident in every aspect of Sugar Creek Farm Market, the family-run operation that has quickly become a trusted source for locally raised meat, eggs and produce.
The market began in 2015 under the ownership of Jeff and Amanda Tennell, who spent years building a loyal customer base. When the opportunity arose to purchase the business two years ago, Ryan and Julie saw a natural fit. With Sugar Creek running through their property, the name felt especially meaningful, and they had already spent years raising cattle of their own. Acquiring the market allowed them to take the next step — bringing products directly from their farm to local families.
Today, Sugar Creek Farm Market reflects the diversity that has become essential in modern agriculture. The Facemires raise feeder calves, Berkshire hogs, laying hens and meat chickens while also farming approximately 2,000 acres of corn, soybeans, wheat and hay. Seasonal crops such as pickling cucumbers add another layer to the operation, and previous years have included potatoes and popcorn as well.
Diversification has become increasingly important in an industry marked by high input costs and volatile markets. Rather than relying on a single commodity, the Facemires have built an operation that can adapt and continue serving customers throughout the year.
The work is demanding. From April through October, 15- to 18-hour days are not uncommon. Farming means constantly racing against the weather, balancing livestock care with crop production and making decisions that can impact an entire season.
Yet when asked why he continues to do it, Ryan’s answer reflects something deeper than economics.
A great-uncle once told him he was “born with the disease” and that “farming is in your blood.” Ryan says that’s probably the best way to explain it.
There is a unique satisfaction in planting a seed in the spring and watching it grow. For Ryan and Julie, farming is about providing for their family, their livestock, their neighbors and the customers who trust them to put food on the table. It’s a responsibility they take seriously and one they are proud to carry forward.
That connection between farmer and consumer is one of the principles that drives Sugar Creek Farm Market. Ryan believes people should know where their food comes from and have confidence in how it is raised. Customers who visit the farm can see firsthand the livestock, the fields and the care that goes into every product sold through the market.
“We take pride in raising it and putting our name on it,” Ryan said.
That commitment has resonated with the community. In just two years under Ryan and Julie’s ownership, the business has tripled in size. The market recently expanded its walk-in freezer to 36 feet, significantly increasing storage capacity and allowing the farm to better serve both longtime customers and newcomers discovering Sugar Creek Farm Market for the first time.
Customer feedback has also helped shape the market’s growth, influencing everything from inventory decisions to future offerings.
Julie is especially excited about the next chapter. The couple is in the process of purchasing a commercial greenhouse that will be relocated to the property, allowing them to offer vegetable plants, flowers and expanded greenhouse selections. The addition will complement the meats, eggs and produce customers already enjoy while creating new opportunities for growth.
Looking ahead, Ryan and Julie hope to continue expanding their offerings and eventually establish a larger storefront. Their goal is simple: continue providing fresh, locally raised products while strengthening the connection between the community and local agriculture.
For the Facemire family, Sugar Creek Farm Market is about more than selling food. It’s about preserving a farming heritage, helping customers understand where their food comes from and sharing the rewards of a life spent working the land. As the business continues to grow, those values remain firmly planted at the heart of everything they do.
