True and Fascinating Canadian History
Vet of the Month: June 2013
Reg.#12402, Staff Sergeant James Raymond McFarland
RCMP Vets. Ottawa, ON
Retired S/Sgt. James Raymond 'Ray' McFarland passed peacefully at home in Nepean, ON, after suffering a stroke. Ray was in his 99th year of a full life.
Born in Saint John, New Brunswick, he was the son of the late Elizabeth Hart and Thomas McFarland. He was predeceased by four sisters and two brothers.
His loving sister Dorothy (Dottie) Marshall continues to live in the St. John area. Loving husband to Mary Nesbitt (Hanway) (deceased) and later to Bernice Hogue (Kelly) (deceased). Incomparable Father of Sheila Tye and James L. McFarland (Paula) as well as loving Grandfather to Kristi Warman, Kathryn Joy (David), Laura McFarland (James) and James Martin McFarland. Caring Great-Grandfather of Jessica Warman, Corey Dodds (deceased), Dustin Warman and Christopher Joy.
Ray joined the RCMP in 1934 and quickly honed his skills as a marksman. He competed in the renowned Bisley Matches in England in the late 1940's.
Retiring from the RCMP as a Staff Sergeant Major in 1961, Ray moved to Toronto to join Dufferin Construction Ltd as Director of Personnel. While there he attended night school at McMaster University to earn a degree in Labour Relations.
He would eventually leave Dufferin to head up Labour Relations for the Toronto Construction Association. Ray retired in 1976 and returned to the west end of Ottawa. However his retirement was short lived, as he was asked to join the Ottawa Construction Association staff shortly after his return to Ottawa.
A life long member of Dalhousie Masonic Lodge, Ray was a Past Master and a former member of the Grand Lodge.
He was an avid gardener, skilled woodworker, and in his younger years, an active curler. He enjoyed photography and travelling around North America with each of his wives.
Visitation will take place at the Garden Chapel of Tubman Funeral Homes, 3440 Richmond Road, Ottawa (between Bayshore and Baseline Road) on Tuesday, May 14, 2013 from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. with service to follow in the chapel at 2:30 p.m.
If desired, and in lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Ottawa Masonic Foundation or a charity of your choice. Condolences, tributes and donations may be made at www.tubmanfuneralhomes.com
Reporting from Fort Healy,
J. J. Healy,
June 23, 2013
