**Michael Patrick McFarland**

**September 17, 1983 – October 6, 2024**

Michael "Mike" McFarland, 41, of West Charleston, Vermont, tragically passed away unexpectedly on October 6, 2024, at home. He was born in St. Johnsbury, VT, on September 17, 1983. He is survived by his parents, Christopher and Patricia McFarland, his grandfather, Harold LaFrance, his grandmother, Esther Weber, and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Mike was truly charismatic with an infectious smile, never a mere bystander in life. He loved spending time with family and friends. As a young boy in the neighborhood, he was the leader of his friends, someone they eagerly followed. He shared a deep bond with his cousins who looked up to him. Mike had a knack for planning family gatherings, always coming up with games and activities to ensure everyone had a great time. Those who really knew Mike got a chuckle about his OCDs, like straight lines in the lawn, clean sneakers, and his shirts having to be folded a certain way.

His primary jobs were in construction, framing, and drywall. Mechanically inclined, he was the embodiment of a "hands-on" person. He took immense pride in working in the family kayaking business, spending many seasons alongside his dad, where he fostered connections and built strong ties within the community.

A lover of all things with a motor, Mike enjoyed driving everything from golf carts and mowers to tractors, four-wheelers, cars, and bikes. He cherished giving the younger children rides around the yard, allowing them to sit in front while he taught them to steer and use the throttle. Mike had a passion for collecting motorcycles and tinkering with them, finding his greatest joy in riding, whether alone or with friends, with whom he formed brotherly bonds. For him, riding was a form of therapy, allowing him to visit his favorite spots for reflection while being fully present in the moment.

A celebration of life will be held at his family home in West Charleston, VT, on October 20th from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.