John F Mcfarland

John F. McFarland, 86, of Lima, died at 1:27 a.m., Saturday, December 11, 2010 at his residence, surrounded by his children. He was born Feb. 10, 1924 in Lima, to Edward and Edna (Laeufer) McFarland who preceded him in death. On May 30, 1952 he married Elizabeth E. “Betty” O’Connor who died on March 31, 1999.

John was a devout Catholic and cherished his ties to the Lima Catholic community. He was a past member of the Lima Central Catholic school board and truly believed in the formation of young minds through the Catholic faith. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving in World War II. After his service, he attended Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus 4th Degree, the Serra Club of Lima, and was past president of St. Rita’s Medical Center advisory board. He was a self-employed manufacturing representative for 35 years. Although he had traveled extensively he always considered Lima his home, and his family his top priority.

John is survived by seven children: Michael (Cindy) McFarland, Gerald (Deborah) McFarland, Mary Jo McFarland-AbouJaoude all of Lima, Kathleen (Dennis) Gray, of Perrysburg, Dan (Kathy) McFarland and Kevin (Leigh) McFarland of Louisville, KY, Bridget (Mark) Guagenti also of Lima; and a sister, Catherine “Kate” Kelker of Winston- Salem, NC. Spending time with his 18 grandchildren was his favorite hobby. His grandson, Joseph AbouJaoude, is currently serving in the US Army, stationed in Afghanistan.

He was also preceded in death by: a son, Edward McFarland, a sister, Margaret “Peg” Kanode, and his first cousin and best friend Gerald O’Connor who passed one year ago on the same date.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m., on Thursday in St. Charles Catholic Church, with Fr. Steve Blum, officiating. Burial will follow in Gethsemani Cemetery with military graveside rites by V.F.W. Post 1275.

Visitation will be on Wednesday from 2-8, at the Siferd-Orians Funeral Home, where a Parish Wake service will be held at 8 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.