Gary Allen McFarlane

Gary Allen McFarlane, age 68, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025, at his home surrounded by loved ones. Gary was born on February 1, 1957, in Spokane, Washington, to Melvin and Norine (Pendleton) McFarlane.

Gary grew up in Spokane, graduating from Shadle Park High School in 1976. In his youth, Gary earned money by delivering the Spokane Daily Chronicle newspaper after school. He enjoyed playing pool, driving his souped-up Oldsmobile Omega, listening to rock music and spending time with friends. Gary had a unique childhood due to a rare congenital condition that required many doctor appointments and operations. During his school years, he spent most winter and summer breaks recovering from surgeries and became a favorite amongst the nurses and doctors who cared for him, due to his easy going and jovial personality.

After graduating high school, Gary served a mission in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. After three months of dedicated and heartfelt service, he was required to return home for urgent medical care. He remained a valiant missionary during his recovery period, with his mother Norine, serving as his beloved companion. He was honorably released after 18 months of service.

Upon his mission release, Gary courted and married his eternal sweetheart, Annette Startin, in the Salt Lake Temple, on August 4, 1979. Gary earned his AA Degree in Business from Spokane Community College in 1981. Gary and Annette were blessed to have five children. Their family continued to grow over the years to include; sons-in-law, a daughter-in-law and sixteen beautiful grandchildren, who brought a great deal of happiness into his life.

Gary had a warm sense of humor and a welcoming disposition. He was fun-loving, kind, patient, and loved to make others smile and laugh. He gave service whenever and wherever he could. He was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in multiple callings throughout his lifetime. He loved the Lord and the scriptures and lived his life guided by the principles taught. He was a loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and uncle.

Gary will leave a deep and lasting impression on all who knew him, showing what it truly means to endure to the end. He persevered through many health challenges throughout his life and never let his physical struggles define him or affect the love he bestowed on his family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife, Annette Startin McFarlane and their five children, Amber (Aaron) Powell, Nichole (Harry) Eisenhauer, Robyn (Blair) Baker, Jeffrey (Katie) McFarlane, and Alyson Harley; sixteen grandchildren; siblings, Melva (Darrel) Dixon, M. Daniel (Mary) McFarlane, and Gayle (Roger) Summerhays; and many nieces and nephews.

Gary was preceded in death by his father, Melvin McFarlane; mother, Norine McFarlane; sister, Janice May; brother-in-law, Thomas May; and great nephew, DJ May.

The family would like to express our deepest gratitude to Gary's daily caregiver, Javed, from Family First, and to his nurse, Rachel, and aide, Morgan, from Horizon Hospice, for the compassionate and exceptional care they provided. Their kindness and unwavering dedication will always be remembered with love and appreciation.

Memorial services will be held at the Spokane Washington North Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Friday, January 2, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. The family will receive visitors prior to the service from 9:00 - 9:45 a.m.

Please share your memories of Gary on his tribute wall.