McFarland and Sons Garage in Lehighton will mark 50 years of business on Monday. The garage offers general auto repair, towing, state inspections and custom exhaust work.

While the business has expanded multiple times, one thing has stayed the same: The business continues to be owned and operated by family members who share a passion for automobiles."There are three generations in it," said Troy McFarland, the son of original owner Calvin McFarland, who passed away in January. His mother, Shirley, worked at the garage for many years. His son Kyle, 22, is now a mechanic at the garage."I like working on cars. I've been around them since I was 5 years old. I grew up here," Troy added, noting that his son had a similar upbringing.Calvin McFarland purchased the current business site and a small garage on March 17, 1964."He used to fix cars at home in our garage," said Shirley. "He enjoyed it. This building was for sale, so he purchased it."The garage was expanded in the 1970s, and grew to its current size about 10 years ago. In 1976, Calvin began selling used cars. This portion of the operation became a separate business and moved across the street in 1989. McFarland's Used Cars and Rebuildables is currently run by Calvin's son, Rodney McFarland.Additional family members celebrating the golden anniversary include Michele Nace, Tammy Graver and Cindy Leiby, all the sisters of Troy and Rodney McFarland.While family members expressed sadness that Calvin won't be here to see the business mark 50 years, they believe he knew the business had a solid future."We're honest. We treat people the same way that we would want to be treated," said Troy. "He knew we would keep it going. I'm hoping my son has kids in the future, to keep it going and in the family."McFarland and Sons Garage is located at 396 W. Lizard Creek Road, Lehighton.For information call (610) 377-4999.