Michael Edward Fairbanks

Michael Edward Fairbanks, beloved husband, son, brother, uncle and friend passed away peacefully in his home on Sunday, August 27, 2017. Michael was born on December 13, 1953 in San Francisco, CA to Constance Jean Edwards and Dr. R. Frank Fairbanks. He was born with many physical disabilities and endured a great deal of pain and challenges throughout his life. We, his family, rejoice at the thought of him running and jumping, free from the constraints of his mortal body.

Michael grew up in Salt Lake City, near Millcreek Canyon and graduated from Skyline High School in 1971. He was a member of the LDS church and served a mission in Atlanta, Georgia. Michael married the love of his life, Nicquita Donna Williams, on July 22, 2006. They were later sealed in the Draper LDS Temple. The Fairbanks family will forever be grateful to Nicquita for her selflessness and devotion to Mike. She cared for him lovingly and tirelessly over the last many years as his health declined.

Throughout his childhood, Mike’s parents made sure he did not miss out due to his limitations. He enjoyed swimming as a child. He could not outrun his friends, but he could frequently outswim them. As a scout, he climbed the cliffs of Lake Powell with his crutches to go cliff jumping with the other boys. He had a passion for chess in his early years and became very good at it. He also had a natural musical ability. He played the organ by ear as much as his hands would let him. Mike excelled at the game of pool and was also an incredible shot. As a boy, he shot a deer while in a wheelchair with a body cast up to his chest. He was great with numbers and had an almost photographic memory. He hated needles and spiders, but he loved food and any Clint Eastwood movie.

People were drawn to Mike and he made friends easily. Among those friends were a few lifelong friends who were very loyal and always looked out for him. Mike was a devoted brother to his six siblings and a doting uncle to their children. He had a great laugh and a bright smile and had the ability to make everyone feel loved and special. Mike was the recipient of multiple miracles in his life and frequently felt the influence of family members who had previously passed on. He had a strong conviction of God’s hand in his life and he never complained about his condition. His positive attitude in spite of so many obstacles served as a great example to all who knew him.

Michael was preceded in death by his father, Dr. R. Frank Fairbanks, sister-in-law, Sally, and former spouse, Charlotte Tuckfield. He is survived by his wife, Nicquita of Midvale, stepchildren Kim Massey of Gilbert, AZ, William R. Fox of San Tan Valley, AZ, Tamika (Brandon) Martin of Las Vegas, NV, grandchildren Ashley Massey, Kelsey Massey, Skylar Fox, Tyler Blackwell, Seth Blackwell, Reece Fox, Rydlie Fox, Raven Womack, Sierra Womack and great-grandchild, Reagan. Michael is also survived by his mother, Connie (Jack) Kinsey of Murray, siblings, Rick (Karen) of Ogden, Dave (Gerry) of Bluffdale, Shauna (Scott) Vernon of Sandy, Steve (Dorothy) of Mesa, AZ, Jon (Cyndy) of St. George, Matt (Kelly) of San Tan Valley, AZ, many nieces and nephews, and countless others who loved him.

Services will be held at the Midvale North Stake Center, 97 West 7500 South, Midvale, on Friday, September 1. A viewing will take place from 10:00 – 11:00 AM with the funeral at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park, 3401 South Highland Drive.

In lieu of flowers family suggests donations be made to:

Hope for Houston - bonneville-charitable.secure.force.com/giving/houston or The American Red Cross - https://www.redcross.org/donate.