Michael Ferda, Jr. passed away Wednesday, February 26, 2014 in Marlin, Texas at the age of 95. Visitation will be Friday, February 28 from 6pm to 8pm at Adams Funeral Home. His life will be honored and celebrated in a graveside ceremony Saturday, March 1 at 2pm at McClanahan Cemetery on FM 147. Rev. Wendy Huber will officiate. Michael was born in Elizabeth, PA on October 5, 1918 to parents Michael and Anna Ferda. His parents were immigrants from Slovakia. Mike was the second of twelve children, three boys and nine girls. His father was a coal miner. Mike left school as a teenager to join his father as a coal miner. During World War II he was drafted into the Army and left the coal mines. While in the service he was stationed in Louisiana and met Ara Reed, who was living in Beaumont, TX. They married on September 2, 1945 in Reno, Nevada and together moved to California while Mike was in the Army. After he was discharged they moved to Marlin, Texas where Michael Ferda III was born. Mike and Ara were very active in the community, including the Eastern Star and the Empty Saddle Club. They were also members of St. John's Episcopal Church. Mike was also very active for 60 years as a Mason and was a Past Master of both the Marlin and Kosse Lodges. He was also active in the Shriners and The American Legion. Mike was predeceased by his wife, Ara, and two stepdaughters, Virginia and Sandra Lea. He is survived by his son, Michael Ferda, III, seven grandchildren, a number of great-grandchildren, and his son-in-law, Mike Meyer. He is also survived by his brother, John Ferda and four sisters, Emma Bullock, Helen "Dutch" Gorby, Sue Hanlin and Jane Koniski.If desired, memorial contributions in Mike's name may be made to St. John's Episcopal Church in Marlin or the charity of your choice.