Kenny “Mac” McFarland, 67, passed away at home on August 14, 2021. He was born October 16, 1953, to George and Ruth (Howerton) McFarland in Marshall, Missouri. He is survived by the love of his life for 48 years, “his bride,” Joyce (Green) McFarland; daughters, Stacey Fox (Jim), Kindra Gassen (Jeff) and Amy McFarland; 7 grandchildren: Michael, Brayden, Addysen, Camdyen, Abel, Landon and Nora; brothers, Randy McFarland (Kerrie) and Tim McFarland (Angela); father-in law and mother-in law Joe and Evelyn Varrelli. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews, extended family members, lifelong friends and past co-workers. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, his parents George and Ruth McFarland; his brother Larry McFarland and sister-in-law Dianna McFarland; his father-in-law Kenneth Green and step mother-in-law Judith Green.
Kenny Mac loved camping – his favorite place was beside a huge campfire surrounded by his grandchildren and nature. He was a self-taught “handy man” and enjoyed restoring old cars, particularly Volkswagens. Everyone in our family knew if something was broken “just give it to dad/grandpa, he can fix anything.” He was an avid reader wanting to continue learning, growing, and experiencing new things. After retiring as a Captain with KCFD, he stayed active by working on his farm and traveling. He was a die-hard Chiefs and Royals fan and enjoyed talking sports. He was also very passionate about politics and enjoyed the time he spent in his union role with IAFF Local 42 and “talking shop.” Kenny worked hard his whole life to provide for his family and he loved them beyond measure. He was our hero in every sense of the word.
Our dad loved the mountains of Colorado so the family will be taking him out there to celebrate his life and legacy. To honor him we leave you with a bit of wisdom he would share from time to time – “Try to leave people better than you found them. You’re never promised tomorrow so live for today. It’s been a ride and we had us a time. Peace and Love – Kenny Mac”
Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home, Oak Grove, MO 816-690-4441
Marcia Myers
18 Aug 2021God has gained a wonderful man/Angel!!! He was a blessing to all of us! My condolences to Joyce, the girls and their families.
Love you! Marcia Myers
Janice DeWalt
18 Aug 2021So sorry to hear of your families life. I worked with Ken at Local 42 for many years and loved his work ethic, his wisdom and his admiration for his family
Kenneth Pegue
19 Aug 2021Mrs McFarland, I thank God Almighty for your husband. From November 29, 1976 (drill school), through many trials and tribulations Ken and I remained close and had a brotherly love for each other. He helped me when I needed help and never refused. He was always faithful to the task. I Chadian the moments of recovery when we shared with each other over the phone. God has given my brother rest from his labors. To God be the glory ✝️🙏💝
George Garrett
20 Aug 2021Out thoughts and love to the family. Kenny Mac was and is an important part of our Fire Dept. he deserve all of our respect. Rest well brother
Smokey Dyer
20 Aug 2021Capt McFarland and I really got to know each other during the early days of the KCFD labor/management program. We certainly had some spirited discussions and there was never a doubt in my mind that he was committed to what he thought was best for the personnel of the department and the KCFD mission. Ken was a truly dedicated member of the department and one heck of a fire fighter.
John Locke
20 Aug 2021Mentor, guardian, friend. I love you Kenny Mac.
Lew Hendricks
20 Aug 2021To the McFarland family – Jackie and I send our prayers, thoughts and deepest condolences for your loss. While I never had the chance to work with Kenny, I knew him to be a man of faith and a strong union brother who would always tell you the truth (no matter how hard it hurt). But more importantly, he was my friend and a person who you wanted to emulate in many ways. Watching him play softball while wearing a dress, dew rag, work boots, and smoking a cigar or listening to the blues will always stay with me.
“Close your eyes my friend, and let Gods calm waters take you home”
Timothy Buster
20 Aug 2021R.I.P. Dear Friend
Larry K Mccolm
20 Aug 2021Had a great time with Kenny when he bid 104 floating Captain spot. A lot of good fire’s with him. RIP Kenny Mac
CHRIS JOINER
20 Aug 2021RIP Kenny. I enjoyed havng you as a captain and learned a lot from you, I enjoyed talking about sports, fires, politics, union, religion….I am certain I will see you again one day!
Earnest Jackson
21 Aug 2021Rest in peace, Ken!!
Mark Falder
21 Aug 2021First met Mac during drill school (impossible number of years ago). Worked with him, played with him, partied with him. He was as strong a union man as anyone and dedicated his life to improving the job for present and future fire fighters. Worked many fires with Ken and he was a force of nature. Tried to appear gruff at times but was just a big old softie. Enjoyed every second with him. To Joyce and entire family, time will help but he will always be there. RIP Kenny.
Robert Hays
21 Aug 2021We shared so much. He truly was my Friend and my Brother, from another Mother.
Mark Falder
22 Aug 2021I met Ken during drill school (so so many years ago). I worked with him, played sports with him, partied with him. Kenny was a unique man who had a positive influence on so many people and not just fire fighters. Ken was as strong a union man as anyone who ever took the oath. He worked tirelessly to improve the job, for current and future fire fighters (I hope they understand this). He was a force of nature at working fires, inspiring all. He was also a blast and an integral part of station life. To Joyce and all of Ken’s family, my most sincere condolences. Time will help and Ken will always be a part of your lives. RIP Mac.
John Bruno
31 Aug 2021To Jackie and the McFarland family, words escape me on how much Kenny was loved by myself and others. After our first meeting and throughout his and our service to the people we severed; Very few men were as committed to Local 42 and the citizens as he was. I will miss his smile. Thank you for sharing him with us.
Mike pusateri
2 Sep 2021I will miss you my brother, thank you for the time that we shared on and off the fire department Rest in peace, see you on the other side
Judy McDaniel Romanchuk
8 Sep 2021I am so sorry to hear of Kenny passing away. He was a very good person and I know he will be missed by so many. I have only fond memories of him. May God be with you all in this time of loss! 💔🙏🏻😘. I am his cousin.
Tom Misasi
28 Feb 2022Just found out of your passing, was a good friend, was in drill school with Ken, hunted quail, and pheasant with Kenny. Still have pictures of Kenny hunting together. Well you were a friend,and will be missed, you will be in my prayers.May God bless you.