Deputy Michael McFarlan of Murrieta Dies Unexpectedly

Murrieta City Council adjourned its meeting Tuesday night in memory of San Diego County Sheriff’s Deputy Michael McFarlan.

McFarlan, 48, died unexpectedly Sept. 24 at his home in Murrieta.

He is survived by his wife, Tamara, 15-year-old triplet sons who are student-athletes at Vista Murrieta High School, and a 7-year-old daughter.

McFarlan made a career change in his early 40s to follow his dream of working in law enforcement.

He went to work for the San Diego Sheriff’s Department in January 2008 at the San Marcos Station, transferring to the Valley Center Substation in December 2009, according to the Deputy Sheriffs’ Association of San Diego County’s website.

“The Deputy Sheriffs’ Association is helping with the family’s immediate needs and will be there within the coming weeks to assist with anything the family may need,” wrote Association President Matt Clay.

“The triplets, in high school, are all very involved in sports and other activities and may need assistance in order to continue with their activities as they adjust to the loss of their father,” Clay wrote.

The Association has created a fund to support the family, according to Clay. Donations can be made at any San Diego County Credit Union branch to account number 4946758. Checks may be made payable to the “Michael McFarlan Memorial Fund” and mailed to the Deputy Sheriffs’ Association, 13881 Danielson Street, Poway, Calif., 92064.

McFarlan’s life will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Friday at Sunridge Community Church, 42299 Winchester Road in Temecula, according to Murrieta Valley Funeral Home’s website.

Murrieta Mayor Rick Gibbs extended the City Council’s sympathies to McFarlan’s family.