Max Dwaine McFarland

Max Dwaine McFarland, age 74 of Albia, passed away Wednesday, February 26, 2014, under the care of Monroe County Hospice at Monroe County Hospital in Albia, surrounded by his family. Max was born March 8, 1939, to Albert and Zelma (Houk) McFarland in Ottumwa. When he was four years old, his family bought a farm in Hiteman and Max has farmed it ever since. Max grew up and attended grade school in Hiteman through 8th grade. He graduated from Albia High School in 1957, where he met his wife, Nancy Lancial during their junior year. They married on March 8, 1959, at the First Christian Church in Albia, and shared 54 blessed years together. To that union two children were born, Dwaine and Karen. After graduation Max worked in Des Moines hanging drywall. He later worked for Paul Gent as a hired hand in Kenross, IA before moving back to the family farm and helping with the dairy. He milked 45-50 cows a day until 1998 and then began raising livestock cattle. While still raising livestock, he worked at A.Y.M. in Albia for seven years until he retired due to health reasons. Max's love and passion for farming and agriculture was instilled into his children and grandchildren. He was a skilled wood worker, and past member of Farm Bureau. He also loved spending time with his family and dogs. Max is survived by his wife, Nancy of Albia; two children, Dwaine "Shorty" Allen McFarland and Karen Marie (Rick) Little, both of Albia; four grandchildren, Ryan May of Hiteman, Cory (Joanna) May of Oskaloosa, Michael May of Fremont, and Tyler Little of Albia; a sister, Darlene Rogers of Albia; two sisters-in-law, Louise McFarland and Janice Callen; a brother-in-law, Larry Lancial; an aunt, Helen Buckholtz; his best friend, Spot; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Harry, Paul, Charles, and Ernest; and a sister, Margaret Jay. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Saturday, March 1, 2014, at Tharp Funeral Home in Albia; with Pastor Brian Harris officiating. Burial will be in Hiteman Cemetery in Hiteman. Visitation will be 11-8 p.m., Friday, February 28, 2014, at the funeral home; with Max's family present from 4-6 p.m. Memorials may be made to Monroe County Hospice.

Max Dwaine McFarland

March 8, 1939 - February 26, 2014