Madeline Farthing Mac Nab

Madeline Farthing Mac Nab's life spanned a large segment of United States history. Born on October 26, 1917 in rural North Carolina, she was raised in a home without indoor plumbing or electricity until she returned home from college. As a child, Madeline trudged barefoot down a dirt path to the two room schoolhouse where her father taught the upper level grades. At a time when most women stayed at home or on the farm, she continued her education by obtaining a masters degree in mathematics from Duke University and a PhD in educational psychology from University of California at Berkeley. Here she met her husband of 60 years, William Keith Mac Nab. After marrying, Madeline and Keith settled in Marin County where they expanded their family with the birth of Ian Keith Mac Nab. While Keith taught chemistry at Drake High School, Madeline spent her days raising Ian until he was old enough for her to return to teaching mathematics at San Dominico Girls School in San Anselmo. Always maintaining a sense of community, Madeline kept a weekly Bridge group with friends, and did volunteer work. In Marin County she volunteered for the American Cancer Society and the Democratic Party, and in Lake County, she and Keith delivered Meals on Wheels and Madeline volunteered at the local Senior Center where she helped elderly people with their tax returns. Retiring in the late 1970's, Madeline enjoyed traveling and gardening with Keith, second of course, to her favorite hobby, reading. After a brief stint in Lake County, the couple settled closer to family in Santa Rosa, where Madeline spent her remaining years enjoying time with grand daughters Sarah, Hayley and Jorie, and Ian and his wife Maggie. In honor of Madeline's lifelong love and involvement in education, we ask you to donate to the scholarship fund of your choice. Arrangements under the care of~ SANTA ROSA MORTUARY EGGEN & LANCE CHAPEL, 545-3747