Mary Elleene McFarland was born August 15, 1908, in Sturgis, S.D., the daughter of Sylvester and Ivy (Mullen) Allison. The family resided in Sturgis until 1916 when they moved to the original Allison Farm east of Vale, where she grew up and attended school, graduating with honors. She also attended Black Hills Normal and upon graduation accepted a teaching position in the Elk Creek area. It was there she met John F. McFarland, her husband of 52 years. They were married on December 30, 1928 at her parents home in Vale. Their first home was a ranch on Elk Creek and in 1937 moved to their new home, the original John McFarland homestead of 1876, on Box Elder Creek near Rapid City. They resided there until her husband's death on December 20, 1980. Elleene was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, the local Extension Club, the Fortnightly Club and a past officer of the Minnelusa Pioneer Association and the Black Hills Pioneer Association. When her career as a ranch wife was over she worked for the Welcome Wagon and the Minnelusa Pioneer Museum. She also was a strong advocate for and participant in the Senior Volunteers Association receiving many awards for her services. Elleene McFarland, age 99, died Monday, April 14, 2008, at Fountain Springs Health Care, Rapid City, S.D. Survivors include one son, Fred McFarland, Rapid City; four daughters. Marietta (Bill) Cleary, Sumter, SC., Marianne (Claude) Logan, Amarillo, TX., Marilyn Lemaster and Loretta (Lamont) Hill, both of Rapid City. Survivors also include 15 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and 13 great-great-grandchildren. Also included are numerous nieces, nephews and other extended family members. Elleene had many highlights in her life, however, family and friends were the focal point. She enjoyed music, dancing, her extensive traveling and always her view of the Black Hills. She was ever so dear to all who knew her and she will be remembered for her friendship, kindness, sense of humor, generosity, and her love. She was preceded in death by her husband John, her parents, her pro-temp mother Carrie Carrothers, one sister (Margaret), one great granddaughter, and numerous other family members. Services will be held at a later date. Memorials have been established to the Minnelusa Pioneer Museum and the Society of the Black Hills Pioneers.