Ernest A. McFarland, 87, Masonic leader, business owner

Ernest A. McFarland held numerous leadership positions since joining the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Valley of Cleveland in 1976 and being crowned a 33rd-degree Mason in 1983.

The Mentor resident, who died Jan. 31 at age 87, had served as commander-in-chief of the Lake Erie Consistory, treasurer of the Valley of Cleveland and executive director of the Cleveland Masonic Library.

He was a past president of the Ohio State Lodge Secretaries Association. He belonged to the St. Benedict Conclave of the Red Cross of Constantine and was named puissant sovereign in 1995.

McFarland, the retired owner of Chrome Services Inc. in Painesville, began holding offices with the Masons in the early 1960s.

He was illustrious master of Painesville Council 104 Royal and Select Masons in 1960. He served as worshipful master of Temple Lodge 28 F.&A.M. in 1961 and as lodge secretary from 1980 through 1993.

 McFarland also belonged to Painesville Chapter 46 R.A.M, Eagle Commandery 29 Knights Templar and Royal Order of Scotland.

He received the DeMolay Legion of Honor and was a member of the DeMolay Mark Master Lodge.

McFarland, who was born in Rossiter, PA, served in the Army Air Forces in Europe during World War II.

At one time, he worked in the Painesville Telegraph’s advertising department.

Survivors include his daughters, Mary-Chris of Mentor and Leslie of Essex, MA; three grandchildren;  and two great-grandchildren.

His wife of 58 years, Carol, died in 2005. His son, Gregory, died in 2008.

Calling hours are from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. Masonic services Friday, Feb. 4, at Johnson Funeral Home, 368 Mentor Ave., Painesville.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 5, at First Church, Congregational, 22 Liberty St., Painesville.

Memorial donations may be made to either the Cleveland Masonic Library or the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite - Valley of Cleveland, 3615 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44115.