David Lee McFadden

David Lee McFadden peacefully passed away at home in Murrieta, CA on April 27, 2020 surrounded by members of his local family. He was born in 1931 in Hutchinson, Kansas west from the homestead of his great-grandparents. It was home for a short while before his parents made their way to Orange County, California.

Dad always was tickled to share his many fond memories of growing up around the vast bean and sugar beet fields, the many youthful escapades with his brothers and lifelong friends, free diving for lobster and abalone long before high-density population in the golden state became the norm, and where to find an unspoiled corner for exploring.

After serving during the Korean War with the US Air Force, he came home to receive a degree from Orange Coast College. Utilizing his technical skills at Beckman Instruments, his agricultural acumen growing oranges for the Irvine Ranch, he was a capable and multi-talented provider. Creating an Escondido family feed, seed and agricultural supply business in 1968 - McFadden Feed Co. - Dave’s children and their many friends were assured of a good, hard day’s work and a welcoming place to hang out. His deep understanding of livestock and animal health led him in to his last career - a successful position as a veterinary pharmaceutical representative.

Passionate about sports and politics, Dad was never afraid to share his thoughts and hearty exclamations, leaving no doubt where his allegiances lay. Always full of life and enthusiasm, he will be remembered as a playful prankster, gifted storyteller, and loyal friend. His deep resilience, faith and optimism kept him willing to explore new frontiers and fresh opportunities that life offered.

He is survived by his wife, Linda; Paul (Barbara) McFadden of Escondido, CA; Susie Beardsley of Bozeman, Montana; Holly Caporale of Escondido, CA; Cindy (Tom) Murray of Rowlett, Texas; Brian (Deb) McFadden of Harvest, Alabama and Andie (Dan) Jehl of San Diego, CA. He was also a very proud Grampy Dave, loved by 21 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren; additionally, a free-range cat, Tank.

Preceding him in death were his late wife Margaret, son Scott Case, brothers John Philip and Willam Alan McFadden.

The family would like to express our deep gratitude to Dr. Curtiss Combs, Mark Hockenberry, and staff at Temecula Valley Medical along with Elizabeth Hospice. A celebration of life and internment at Miramar National Cemetery will be held when social distancing regulations permit.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in David’s memory to Samaritan’s Purse (https://www.samaritanspurse.org/) or Saint Jude’s (https://www.stjude.org/donate.

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