MARCELLA MCFARLAND

In loving memory of Marcella Amelia Nepodal McFarland, who peacefully entered the gates of our Lord's eternal home Sunday, February 11, 2024. Her funeral was held February 19 at Goglin Funeral Home in Tyndall. Interment was in the Presbyterian Cemetery, rural Tabor.

Marcella, affectionately known as Marcie, was born January 4, 1934, in Chamberlain, to Victor Jr Nepodal and Amelia (Rehurek) Nepodal. Raised on a farm near Kimball alongside her four older brothers and two older sisters, Marcie learned the values of hard work and resilience. Despite the challenges, she cherished her childhood memories of playing under the big tree, caring for turkeys, and herding cattle during those lean years.

At the age of 17 ½, Marcie met the love of her life, LaVern Mc-Farland, at a dance hall north of Yankton. They married July 22, 1951, and embarked on a journey that spanned continents. LaVern's Navy service took them to California, where Marcie dutifully returned to South Dakota whenever he went overseas. Together, they welcomed four children into their lives: Marlan, Debra Denise, Bryan Frank and Tamara Lynn.

While LaVern ran auto repair shops, Marcie managed the household and family. Together, they operated a secondhand store in Wagner, enjoying the thrill of finding treasures. Despite a brief stint in Yakima, Washington, the call of family, especially their only grandchild, Jessica, brought them back to Tyndall. After LaVern's passing in May 2005, Marcie moved to Sioux Falls in 2022 to be closer to her children, granddaughter and great-grandchildren.

Marcie's warm spirit and strength will be dearly missed by all who knew her. She was reunited in heavenly paradise with her husband, LaVern; her eldest daughter, Debra; her parents; most siblings; sisters-in-law; nephews and many other cherished family members.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and resilience, survived by her children: Marlan McFarland (Tyndall), Bryan McFarland (Sioux Falls), Tamara McFarland (Sioux Falls); her granddaughter, Jessica ( Dave) Murphy (Valley Springs), along with great- grandchildren, Mea Murphy, JD Murphy, Connor Murphy (Brandon), and Mac Murphy (Valley Springs). Marcie is also fondly remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, and countless loved ones.

In celebrating her life, let us remember the strength, love, and enduring legacy of Marcella Amelia Nepodal McFarland. May she rest in eternal peace.