INDUSTRY – Vernon T. McFarlane “Mac,” 80, of Industry, died Sunday, Jan. 2, at his home in Industry.
He was born Aug. 7, 1924, in Portland, the son of James M. and Mildred E. (Maloney) McFarlane. He was educated in the schools in Portland, graduating from Deering High in the class of 1942.
He joined the Army in 1943 and fought in the South Pacific, Phillippines Theater, as a Ranger. He was a Platoon leader in M Company 32nd Infantry Division. He was also a recipient of the Purple Heart.
He married Harriet (Sylvia) Thorne on June 28, 1947, in Portland. She passed on Aug. 20, 2004.
He worked for New England Tel & Tel for 31 years, retiring in 1978 due to ill health.
He was a devout member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farmington. He was also a member of the American Legion, Harold T. Andrews Post in Portland and Roderick Crosby Post in Farmington, as well as a lifetime member of the V.F.W. Post 3335 in Jay, the disabled American Veteran Post 320 in Jay and a honorary member of the Panther Veterans Organization 66th Division U.S. Army World War II. Mac was a 4th degree of the Knights of Columbus at Saint Rose Council, and a life member of the Bishop Bacon Council in Farmington.
He enjoyed golfing, being past president of Wilson Lake Country Club, bowling as a member of the “Incredible Seniors.” Mac was an avid outdoorsman who especially enjoyed hunting, fly fishing, and skiing. He drew great pleasure from spending time with his family, especially breakfasts out with his wife, Sylvia.
Survivors include a daughter, Paula T. Hubbard of Pittsfield; two sons, Jeffrey and his wife, Anita, of Industry, and Paul and his wife, Cathy, of Chelsea; three sisters, Dorothea Connolly, Elinor Shuman, and Joanne Falcone all of Portland; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
He was predeceased by his wife, Harriet, of 57 years, and an infant brother, Vincent.
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