Stephen Felton McFarlane dies at 78
Stephen Felton McFarlane of Paso Robles passed away Jan. 8, 2018. He was born in 1939 in Glendale, to Felton (Mac) and Mary McFarlane. Mr. McFarlane attended one day only of public school, a standard practice at the time because of his intellectual handicap, autism, and cerebral palsy. His parents provided him extensive private education and were the founding board members for the Lowman School for Handicapped Children in Los Angeles which opened in 1952. This was the first school of its kind in Los Angeles.
Steve was a consummate ham radio listener, bowler, lover of baseball, politics, and most especially people. He never forgot a name or birthdate and had a savant-like memory for maps, streets, and places. He enjoyed his work at NCI Affiliates, his time with Special Olympics, and trips with UCP’s Leisure Club. He is survived by his sister Sally McFarlane of Atascadero, his niece Dr. Debra Balke (Alex) of Templeton, his nephew Michael Berger of Westminster and great nephew Calvin Balke and great niece Heather Balke of San Luis Obispo. The world was taught many lessons from his life and was a better place because of him. At his request, cremation has taken place and his ashes scattered at sea. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to the Central Coast Autism Spectrum Center in Steve’s name.
