Robert A. Fairbank passed away on Sunday, October 16, 2016, at the age of 87. Born in Dewitt, New York, he lived in and near Onondaga County all his life.
A graduate of Fayetteville High School and the Cornell University School of Dairy Management, Bob became Plant Manager of Fairbank Farms Dairy, at Erie Boulevard, Syracuse, at the age of 22. When the Dairy was sold, Bob went to work for Simplex Time Recorder Corporation and stayed there for 32 years. He started out as a salesman and became a Branch Manager who was adored by his employees and their families.
Bob loved Yankees baseball, fishing, small engine repair, crossword puzzles, vegetable gardening, and growing fruit trees. He was very proud to be a life member of the Fayetteville Fire Department, where many knew him as “Spider.” He was also a charter member of Woodcrest Golf Club and a respected member of the Woodcrest family.
Bob is survived by Betsy Volles Fairbank, whom he married in 1950; four children, Steve Fairbank, Joel Fairbank, Patti Fowler, and Gail Fairbank-Roch; his brother, Ronald; five grandchildren; and four great grandchildren. He is pre-deceased by his parents, Hazel and Ray Fairbank; his brother, Arthur; and his sister, Betty.
A casual gathering in honor of Bob will be held 2 to 5 pm on Sunday, October 30th at the Fayetteville Fire House.
Contributions may be made to the Fayetteville Fire Department, 425 E. Genesee St., Fayetteville, NY 13066.