Efale Allen McFarland

Efale led an exhilarating life with her sense of romantic adventure leading her to many exotic locations. She grew up in Piedmont, CA, and graduated from Piedmont High in 1962.

She had many interests, starting with the animal kingdom, always having several pets at a time. After study at the CCA in Oakland, painting and photography became her enduring pursuits. Through her Art she expressed her profound love for nature and beauty.

Keenly interested in Eastern religions, she went to India and Nepal to study with spiritual teachers. In India, Efale became close friends with the head of Oberoi Hotels and spent many months there where she enjoyed her role in the Interior Decoration of several Oberoi hotels. She divided time between India and Rocky Roost, Tahoe, her beloved lakefront home where friends from all over gathered for the best parties ever!

Efale often traveled to Tiger Tops, Nepal, where her love of elephants was born. She adopted her rescue elephant, “Bidgely” and created the Foundation to Save the Asian Elephants. Also, she, in her inimitable style, captained the first Women’s Elephant Polo Team in Kathmandu.

Mid-life Efale was dedicated to the issue of Elder Care and established The Fisher House, a compassionate care home in Santa Barbara, which received an Excellence award from the State of California.

It should be noted that, in her prime, Efale was known for her stunning beauty. She was a captivating storyteller, with her myriad tales of fascinating experiences. Listening to her, with her luminous aquamarine eyes and expressive hands, will long be remembered by those blessed enough to have known her.

A Memorial Celebration will be held in early 2024.