Robert "Mac" Charles Mcfarland

Robert Charles "Mac" McFarland, age 89, of La Grande, died Tuesday, July 10, 2007 at a local care facility.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 14, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. at Daniels Chapel of the Valley. Private interment will be at the Enterprise Cemetery.

Mac was born on September 24, 1917, the son of Robert Bruce and Marguerite (Patterson) McFarland in Spokane, Washington. During World War II he served with the United States Army. After his honorable discharge he worked in Portland before moving to La Grande in 1948 where he and partner, Art Komma started a meat locker and processing plant. In 1960 they purchased Chris Foods, a grocery store, from M.M. Christensen and changed the name of the store and the locker to Hub City Foods and Lockers.

He was married to Margaret Nordlund Sperling until her death in 1998.

Mac was a member of the American Legion and was secretary for the 3rd Division Western Region. He was an avid flyer and was a member of the La Grande Flying Club. He owned and operated a gold mine in Durkee for many years.

Survivors include his step-children, Marilyn and Ken Holt of Enterprise and Ted and Sandy Sperling of Newport, Washington; five step-grandchildren; sisters, Marguerite Rogers of Vancouver, Washington and Edith Turner of Beaverton; numerous nieces and nephews and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers.

Those who wish may make contributions in memory of Mac to the charity of one's choice.