Robert L. Mcfarland

Ballston Lake- Robert L. McFarland, 90, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 27, 2024 at his home with his loving family by his side. He was the son of the late Frederick and Hazel McFarland. Robert was the devoted husband to Norma Jean McFarland. They were married 65 years.

Robert was born and raised in Mount Vernon, Ohio. At a young age, he joined his father’s business. He and his brothers established McFarland Brothers Trucking. Robert enlisted in the Ohio National Guard and United States Army. After his discharge, he returned to the family business. Eventually, the business evolved into McFarland Brothers Sales and Service. In 1983, he moved to New York to manage Albany Transport Inc. Later, he purchased and owned a trucking consulting business, Safety Transportation Service. He transitioned to retirement at age 85.

Robert enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchild. They were the apples of his eyes, and knew of his deep love for them. Having an ease with people, he never knew a stranger, greeting one and all with his boisterous “Y’HELLO”, a firm handshake or warm hug.

Robert was intuitive, and early in life established a pattern of putting others first. He was a member of Clifton Park Center Baptist Church for 40 years where he served as an usher, greeter and trustee.

An avid woodworker, he created and gifted many handmade items. Tapping into his entrepreneurial spirit, he turned this and that into something of purpose. He reused the seemingly unreuseable, with family and friends amused and dumbfounded by his unique perspective; some pursuits perhaps even worthy of a patent status!

His kind, fun loving personality and hospitable nature brightened a room, drawing others to him, and enough teasing and storytelling was enjoyed that you wanted to remain in his midst.

In addition to his wife, Robert is survived by his daughters, Sherry (Kelly) Clark, Shelly, Robert Jr. (Carole) and Curtis (Pamela) grandchildren, Whitney (Josh) Sidonis, Ryan (Alex) Clark , Myles, Claire and Charlotte and great grandchild, Elliot Sidonis. In addition, he is survived by siblings, Donald (Sue), Betty Bechtel, Roy (Linda) and Shirley (Dave) Harrison and sisters in law, Joyce Bell and Esther Connell. He was preceded in death by brother, Fred and his wife, Donna, and brothers in law, David Bell, Arthur Connell and Dean Bechtel.

The funeral service will be held at 12PM on Wednesday, July 3, 2024 at the Clifton Park Center Baptist Church. The family will receive guests one hour prior to the service. A celebration of life will be held in Ohio at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Robert's name to City Mission of Schenectady, 425 Hamilton Street, Schenectady NY 12305.

Special thanks to Dr. Edward Liebers, PA Murtaza Singaporewala, and Dr. John Pezzulo for their outstanding care of Robert. Special thanks to Chris, Rose and Debbie from Saratoga Hospital Oncology and Hematology for their special attention as well as Caitlyn, Anna and Belinda of The Community Hospice who provided support to Robert and his family.

To share a memory of Robert or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.