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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Obituary: Mcfarlen, Kenneth Lyle


McFARLEN, Kenneth Lyle

Kenneth Lyle McFarlen was born in February 1928 in Spokane, WA.

to John and Mildred McFarlen.

Ken graduated from North Central High School despite working as an under-aged truck driver during WW11.

Ken married his high school sweet-heart Louis Mae Cosby.

He served as a Marine in the Korean War where he was stationed, when Louise gave birth to their only child, Michael Lynn McFarlen in October 1950.


Ken was transferred to Seattle where the family took up residence in Bellevue.

He became active in the Junior Chamber of Commerce where he was awarded the “Clint Dunagan Award” for Outstanding National Director.

Ken was also a member of the Elks Lodge #2504 in Oceano, CA.

and a long time member of The Masonic Lodge in Arroyo Grande, CA.
Early retirement was followed by a second career as the broker for Pismo Coast Village.

There Ken and Louise were able to immerse themselves in the RV lifestyle and community.

Many of those who call Ken their friend met him during his 30 years of living on wheels.
When Ken and Louise parted ways, Ken met Marion Sutton and they married in July, 2002.

After several years of traveling and rallying, they took up residence in Arroyo Grande, CA.

Marion lost her battle with cancer in September, 2010.

Ken felt quite lost since then, despite his son and loving family in close proximity.
Ken passed peacefully in Arroyo Grande Hospital, Tuesday, April 24, 2012.

Ken is survived by his son, Michael, daughter-in-law, Deborah and grand-daughter, Rebecca McFarlen, all of Arroyo Grande, CA.

and many other family and friends across the United States.
Per his request, Ken’s life will be celebrated at an Irish Wake in Spokane on May 21st, followed by his burial at 11 o’clock on May 22nd.

For details, please e-mail: michaelmcfarlen@sbcglobal.net.