Helen A. McFarland, 58

Helen A. McFarland, 58, passed away unexpectedly in her home from heart failure on the evening of Jan. 18, 2016. Born in Anaconda, Mont., on May 22, 1957, to William and Jean Torgerson, she was a loving mother, faithful wife and wonderful friend to many.

Graduating from Coeur d’Alene High School in 1975, Helen moved to Alaska for a short time where she met her beloved and late husband Jim McFarland. After a few years in Portland, Ore., Helen, Jim and their two children Jared and Kelly settled down in Coeur d’Alene, including 10 years of commitment to Idaho Forest Industries where she made many lasting friendships.

Helen loved being a mom, a wife and a homemaker. Her every effort was to ensure the happiness and success of others. She selflessly supported Jim’s businesses, sacrificed to provide for her children’s activities and education, and always had a warm meal on the table at the end of the day. Be it birthday cakes, bake sale cookies or her grandmother’s Italian bread, Helen was always baking for others. She was creative, smart, resourceful and maintained a devotion to Christ through her Catholic faith.

Helen is survived by her mother, Jean Torgerson; her three children, Kelly McFarland, Jared McFarland and Matt Ziegler; her three sisters, Ann Beutler, Donna Olson and Sue Haverfield; and her brother, Tom Togerson.

Helen was deeply loved by many and will be greatly missed.

A funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 28, 2016, at St. Thomas Church, reception to follow. All who knew and loved Helen are invited to attend.

Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Helen’s online memorial and sign her guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.