Donald Weldon McFarlin Jr.

Donald Weldon McFarlin Jr., 50, died Nov. 27, 2004, at his home in Palmer.

A viewing was held at noon, Saturday, at Kehl's Palmer Mortuary, with a service afterward. Pastor Clark and Brother Paul McFarlin officiated. Honorary pallbearers were Ed Ward, Robert Jolicues, Harry Canfield, Steve Belka, J.D. Purdue, and Rick "Stretch" Arnold.

His ashes will be scattered at his favorite places in Alaska.

Mr. McFarlin was born March 30, 1954, in Anchorage, and lived in Anchorage, Wasilla and Palmer throughout his life.

He attended East Anchorage High School from 1970-1972. Mr. McFarlin was a corporal in the U.S. Marines, and was honorably discharged in 1975.

After his service as a Marine, he worked in security at Prudhoe Bay from the late 1970s to late 1980s. He also worked as a mechanic's helper in Prudhoe Bay in the 1990s.

He earned the Good Conduct and National Defense Service medals, the Meritorious Mast Award and was an aviation munition expert.

He was a great artist, drawing Native American themes, portraits and eagles. He loved riding and working on Harleys, and spending time with family and friends.

His loved ones wrote, "He was more than a brother, he was a best buddy, travel partner, and best friend. If he had his way, he would be buried on a Harley. He was always ready to help out when needed. He had a big heart full of love for all his family and friends.

He was a great instigator, always ready to get things going. He loved to laugh and he brightened the room with his contagious smile. He was very charismatic and made friends easily. You knew you were loved by him when he gave you a special and unique name. He will be missed dearly and will live forever in our hearts."

Mr. McFarlin is survived by his parents, Donald W. McFarlin Sr. and Hazel T. McFarlin; son, Troy A. McFarlin, and granddaughter, Amari McFarlin; sisters, Roxanne Smyers, Clovis Leiser and her husband, Scott Leiser; brothers, John A. McFarlin and Paul A. McFarlin; nephews, Casey Smyers, James McFarlin, Zach Leiser and Nathan Leiser; nieces, Anna Eason, Amber McFarlin and Andrea McFarlin and many cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Cindi McFarlin.

Arrangements were made by Kehl's Palmer Mortuary.