Guy Douglas McFarlin, a man of many passions and opinions, died Dec. 24, 2021 at home in Tampa, FL. Pam, his wife of 46 years, was holding his hand. Born Jan. 31, 1950 in East Moline, IL to John and Laura McFarlin, and brother Bill, Guy was known for his larger than life personality. Over the last few weeks friends and family have shared memories of his love of music, nature, reading and family.
United Township High School, Class of ‘68, was the setting for Guy’s GREAT love of music. He formed the Tempters V band that covered top hits and rocked the Cow Palace, and he went on to form many jam bands and teach Rhythm Cats music classes.
Nicknamed “Uncle Nature,” by his family for his cool scavenger hunts and enormous forts built in the sand dunes on vacation, he discovered his love of nature at Indian Dancing with his dad and summer camp counseling. He studied marine biology at the USVI, and Guy and Pam spent 5 years soaking up sunshine and island culture in St Thomas. He cultivated his bonsai collection for decades and nurtured orchids at our “Bamboo Retreat.” He shared his love of nature with all, and chaired the Lower Park Zoofari fundraiser in ’94.
After high school, he entered the United States Marine Corps and served 3 years in the Vietnam War. The USMC was a lifelong positive influence on Guy’s life, from his strong adherence to detail and respect to his frequent “Semper Fi” greetings.
Guy was extremely well read and would speak with anyone on any subject (sometimes adamantly!) whether it be the history of China, European philosophies, plant life, or how best to prepare a dish. He would awaken with a new poem in mind that he had to write down at once.
Guy and Pam moved to Florida in ’80 and raised their 2 daughters, Kate & Margaret.
Guy LOVED being their Dad…Teaching and challenging them to do their best, sharing everything like symphonies, how to cook, shopping for that perfect prom dress and traveling 43 states in our Dodge van. Trips to New Orleans, China and family visits went on for several years. He was extremely proud of how independent and community minded his daughters are, Even greater joy Guy felt as his daughters became loving mothers, and grandchildren brought many smiles to him.
Guy is survived by his wife Pamela, daughters, sons-law and grandchildren: Kate & Nate Barney, Rose, Will, Eliza Barney, Nantucket; Margaret & Casey McGaughey, Kai & Miles McGaughey, Indianapolis; In-laws Debbie Quigg, Tom & Melinda Doyle, Mike & Keri Doyle, Jim & Donna Doyle, Best friend Ed Cornell and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Friends of the North Tampa Branch Library.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.