Clifford McFarland, 68

Clifford McFarland passed away at home in Concord, Calif., on Feb. 28, 2007, surrounded by his loving family, after a heroic yearlong battle with cancer.

A 42-year resident of Concord, Clifford was born in Scobey, Mont., on Jan. 18, 1939. He was preceded in death by his mother, Violet Mae Hansen, and sisters, Edith and Carol. He is survived by his loving wife, Linda; twin brother, Edward (Patty); brother, Mylo; sister, Wanda Bailey; sons, Sean (Lauren) and Michael (Ann); stepson, Donald Van Guilder; daughters, Sheila (Nick Ehrlich) and Michelle; stepdaughter, Valerie Aguilar; 10 grandchildren; and numerous nephews and nieces.

Clifford graduated from Sandpoint High School in Sandpoint, Idaho, in 1954. He proudly served in the Marine Corps and graduated with a BA in Business from Idaho State College in 1960.

He began his business career with Del Monte Foods and later joined C. Markus Hardware, where he worked for the rest of his professional life.

Clifford enjoyed gardening, golfing, skiing, traveling and above all, treasured time with his family and friends. Clifford was extremely generous and giving, always lending a hand with home improvement projects, helping financially when needed and unselfishly and gently mentoring numerous family members and friends.

A memorial celebration of Clifford's life will be held at the Walnut Creek United Methodist Church, 1543 Sunnyvale Avenue, Walnut Creek.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that gifts be made in Clifford's memory to the Wellness Community, 3276 McNutt Avenue, Walnut Creek, 94596 or Hospice of Contra Costa, 3162 Danville Boulevard, Alamo, 94507.