David Michael McFarland

David Michael McFarland passed away peacefully with his dedicated and loving wife, Joyce (Richard) McFarland, by his side on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the age of 78. He fought a long and courageous battle with cancer. 

 A devoted husband to Joyce, for 57 years, Dave’s love for his family was the cornerstone of his life. He leaves behind his cherished children, Robert (Irene) McFarland, David (Jamie) McFarland, Colleen (Dennis) Szczepanski and Kimberly (Eric) Lucke.  Dave was affectionately known as “Papa” by his 12 grandchildren, Ashley (Layne) Theriot, Kyle McFarland, Maddie and Ian McFarland, Katie, Rachel, Emily, Zack and Zoey Szczepanski and E.J., Ben and Jenna Lucke; great grandchildren, Vera and Hayven Theriot. He was a loving brother to his siblings, Mary Lu Hickner, Patrick (Barb) McFarland, Michael McFarland and Maureen McFarland; numerous nieces, nephews and very close friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Kathleen (Neil) Huiskens and brother-in-law, Paul Hickner. 

 He was born to the late Martin and Eleanor (Fitzgibbon) McFarland on April 23, 1946, in Bay City, Michigan. He graduated from St. Mary’s Catholic High School in 1964, and served in the Army Reserves for 6 years. Dave was a Journeyman Electrician for Essexville Electric and was a member of I.B.E.W. Local 692. He and his wife, Joyce, enjoyed social gatherings with their friends and were members of the Christian Friend Circle for over 50 years. He was known for his strong work ethic as he gave his time to the church, school, and community.

 Dave enjoyed the outdoors as he would spend his time golfing, walking, biking, and camping. He took pleasure in caring for his lawn and home. His pranks and jokes may have been light hearted, but his love was sincere. Family gatherings will be incomplete without his stories and warm presence. He made it a priority to spend time with each grandchild. 

 Dave and Joyce grew up together and grew old together. They met at St. Mary’s Catholic Church as young children and have been best friends ever since. 

 The family would like to extend a very special thank you to the staff with Compassus Hospice and staff at Toni and Trish House for their care and compassion during this difficult time. 

 Memorial Mass will take place on Thursday, June 6, 2024 at Corpus Christi Parish at 11:00 a.m. The Celebrant will be Fr. Patrick O’Connor. The family will be present to receive visitors at Gephart Funeral Home on Wednesday, June 5, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Thursday at the Church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass. A Vigil Service for David will take place on Wednesday at the Funeral Home at 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution in Dave’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Toni and Trish House.