Michael was born May 1, 1947, in Peoria, IL, the son of William Bernard and Loretta Ann Waldschmidt McFarden. He married Joy Laylock on January 4, 1969, in Creve Coeur, IL.
Michael graduated from Spaulding High School in 1965 and proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force for four years. He was employed with Caterpillar in Peoria for over 50 years before retiring. Michael enjoyed fishing, mushroom hunting, and Corvettes. He was also an avid Chicago Cubs baseball fan and Notre Dame Football fan.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Bernard McFarden; and sisters, Sue Vespa and Marilyn Wilson.
Michael is survived by his wife, Joy McFarden of Marquette Heights, IL; daughters, Michelle (Curt) Eaker of East Peoria, IL and Mindy (Matthew) Booker of Chatham; grandchildren, Curt Eaker, Brandon (spouse, Val Davis) Eaker, Kiersten Eaker, Emma Booker, Benjamin Booker, Ryan Booker, and Matthew Booker; great-grandson, Owen Eaker; siblings, Gary McFarden, Diane Sweat, and Jim (Mary Beth) McFarden; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Cremation was provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.
Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association or the Animal Protective League.
The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Chatham, 8855 State Route 4, Chatham, IL.
