Michael Vincent Fajer

Michael Vincent Fajer, a lifelong Oregonian, passed away on March 9, 2026. Born on May 30, 1952, in Eugene, he was the son of Michael John Fajer and Joy Yvonne Crosswhite Fajer. Mike grew up near the Oregon State Fairgrounds in Northeast Salem. He attended St. Vincent de Paul Elementary, Serra Catholic, and North Salem High Schools, graduating in 1970 from North Salem. Inspired by his father, Mike played competitive baseball and handball during his high school years.

Mike pursued higher education at Oregon State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science. While attending Oregon State University, Mike and his future bride, Cynthia Louise Glendinning, were in the same class though they did not discover this until after they formally met many years later. Mike went on to earn a Master's degree and then embarked on a teaching career, teaching at various schools across Oregon. Notably, he taught at St. Mary's Academy in Portland, where he also coached the school's soccer team. His final teaching position was at Sacred Heart Academy in Salem, where he taught science. His youngest brother, Keith, was proud to be among his students.

Mike and Cynthia Louise Glendinning exchanged vows on February 5, 1983, at St. Vincent de Paul Church in Salem. Mike's brother, David, stood as his best man, while his sisters, Mary and Elizabeth, graced the ceremony as bridesmaids. Mike and his family were members of St. Joseph's Parish.

After Sacred Heart Academy closed in 1984, Mike embarked on a career dedicated to public service at the State of Oregon within the Occupational Health and Safety Administration. Throughout his tenure, he held esteemed positions, including Principal Executive Manager and Industrial Hygienist.

Mike, a proud and devoted father, welcomed his son Daniel William in 1985 and his daughter Michelle in 1987. He loved his children dearly.

Mike, an avid cyclist, rode throughout the Willamette Valley and beyond, training rigorously and setting personal records in time trials. He refused to improve his performance by upgrading to a carbon fiber frame, and instead challenged himself to push his trusty old steel frame to its limits. Additionally, Mike excelled at competitive handball, competing in both singles and doubles matches, often partnering with his father, Michael.

Mike enjoyed the outdoors and working with his hands. He was a dedicated search and rescue volunteer, where he was instrumental in several recoveries. He also enjoyed woodworking in his shop, where he often generously lent his skills to help out family and friends.

After retirement from Oregon OSHA, Mike, along with his beloved wife, Cynthia, continued to maintain and improve a stunning garden and landscape they had created together over the years, generously sharing its fruits and vegetables with family and friends.

Mike cherished family above all, devoting himself unselfishly to his loved ones. He enjoyed cheering on his granddaughter, Leila, at her high school wrestling and track and field events; hiking sections of the Pacific Crest Trail with his brother, David; supporting his nieces by attending their many school and sports events; and setting up excursions, hikes, and even white-water rafting trips to spend time together with his family.

He is survived by his wife Cynthia of 43 years; children Daniel William and Michelle Elizabeth; granddaughter Leila Fajer; brothers David James and Keith Allen; and sister Mary Frances Gritta. He was predeceased by his sister Elizabeth Joy Fajer, who passed away in 1986 at the age of 25.

A Memorial service will be held Friday, April 3rd with a viewing from 9-10am and service 10-11AM @ Howell Edwards