William J. McFarland

William J. McFarland

William J. (Bill) McFarland passed away at home August 6, 2005, at the age of 80. Born in Eureka April 13, 1925, he lived here all his life, leaving only to attend and graduate from, San Jose State University in 1948.

Bill was a faithful community servant and belonged to several local service organizations. He was a charter member, and past president, of the Southwest Eureka Rotary Club. He was also a member of the Elks Lodge, Masons, the Baywood Golf and Country Club, the Presbyterian Church (of which he was a past Elder), and a past member of the Ingomar Club.

As the successful owner of McFarland Realty, he retired five years ago, after fifty years in real estate. He had served as the president of Eureka-Humboldt County Board of Realtors.

Bill was a devoted family man, and is survived by his wife of 52 years Patricia; three daughters and their spouses, Katy and Mike Cortopassi, Karen and Jim Gomes, Sara and Larry Crabb; and two sons, Patrick and Andrew, all of Eureka. Survivors also include his sister, Mary Bechtold, and her daughter Elvina and son Bill; as well as five grandchildren, Kacy Cortopassi and her fiancée Travis Hunter, Eric Cortopassi, Ryan and Hannah Crabb, and Josh Gomes.

An avid golfer and sports fan, Bill once shot a hole in one. Throughout the years, he and Pat traveled many times to the Hawaiian Islands to play golf at various resorts.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Heart Association or to the charity of your choice.

Private family interment services will be held. Friends and family are invited to a celebration of his life at the Elks Lodge, 445 Herrick Avenue, Eureka, California, on Thursday, August 11, 2005, at 2:00 pm.

Arrangements are under the care of Sanders Funeral Home, Eureka, California.

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