Ernest "Ernie" McFarland

Ernest “Ernie” McFarland, age 75, of Eaton, OH passed away on Friday, August 7, 2026 at the Maple Gardens Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. He was born August 10, 1950 in Pittsburgh, PA to the late Ben and Mary (Bruno) McFarland.

Ernie was born in Pittsburgh and moved to Los Angeles in 1963. He attended USC to pursue a career in law and was in the US Marine Corps Reserves. He was always a good manager, which showed through the years he spent with different pet stores like PetSmart. He followed many sports teams in Pittsburgh, such as the Pirates, Penguins and Steelers, as well as the USC Trojans; he enjoyed collecting different baseball memorabilia. He was very passionate about helping youth advance in baseball. He was a little league baseball coach for his sons and his brother; a few of the children he coached even made it to the professional level. Ernie and his wife Susie moved to Ohio in 2009 to be closer to their grandchildren. Above all else, Ernie was a wonderful husband and a loving father and grandfather.

Ernie is survived by his wife of 52 ½ years, Susie J. McFarland; sons Michael McFarland and Matthew (Amanda) McFarland; grandchildren Skyler Aron, Tristyn Kahrin and Raighen Michelle; step grandchildren Nevaeh and Johnna Goins; sister Cindy (Tony) Fernandes; brother Tom (Beth) McFarland; nephew Anthony Fernandes; niece Rebecca McFarland; cousin Linda (Jimmy) Mazur; and many other extended family members and friends in Pittsburgh, Michigan, Utah and California.

In accordance with Ernie’s wishes, no services will be held. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Gard Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Eaton is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences and other remembrances may be sent to the family by visiting www.gardfuneralhome.com.