William D. Fairbanks

William D. Fairbanks, 89, of Neodesha, Kansas, passed away at Neodesha Care and Rehabilitation on May 30, 2024. 

Bill was born October 9, 1934, in Longton, Kansas to William and Lucy (Browder) Fairbanks. He married the love of his life, Retha (Vandermark), on January 22, 1955, at Independence Nazarene Parsonage in Independence, Kansas. Bill and Retha had two children and were happily married for 69 years.  

He was always a hard worker and held many different positions over the years including working for Frito’s Construction building bridges, Barton Sawmill, EMCO Industries, Farmer’s Co Op, and Cobalt Boats where he retired after 23 years in 2007.

Bill and his wife Retha attended Lighthouse Community Church of God. He loved to fish, especially catfish, hunt, and enjoyed camping with his family.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents William and Lucy Fairbanks, daughter Tinna Marie Fairbanks, great granddaughter Rebecca Aimsworth, and two sisters Nina Tunnison and Carol Mills.

He is survived by his loving wife Retha Fairbanks, his son William D. Fairbanks Jr. (Guyla Foulk), his brothers Raymond (Nancy) Fairbanks and Carl Fairbanks, five grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, and eleven great - great grandchildren. 

Cremation has taken place and a family service is pending.  Memorial contributions can be made in Bill’s name to the Lighthouse Community Church of God in Neodesha. 

To leave a special message for the family please visit wwwloranfawcettfuneralhome.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Loran Fawcett Chapel.