Betty Mae Fairbanks

Betty Mae Pederson was born in a small town on the North Dakota prairie, the second of 4 children. Her father, a blacksmith who owned 5 businesses, was born in Norway and later immigrated to the United States. Although both parents’ first language was Norwegian, they refused to teach it to the children to ensure that they would be American first. Her first years of schooling were in a one-room schoolhouse. Although growing up during the depression, Betty’s parents ensured the family lacked nothing. In 1942, they moved to Bremerton, Washington, where her father worked in the shipyards and her mother assembled torpedoes to support the war effort. Betty was a school band member alongside Quincy Jones, who nicknamed her “Little (Gene) Krupa” after seeing her play drums.

After high school Betty entered nursing school in Washington D.C. graduating at the top of her class. Leaving nursing school Betty briefly moved to Seattle before moving to Houston where she worked with a famous heart surgeon. Finally in 1959 she settled in Los Angeles to be close to family.

While in her 30s Betty joined the Air National Guard where she once again graduated at the top of her class. While in the Guard she met her husband, whom she married in 1970 and had two sons with. She achieved the rank of Major during her tenure within the organization. In 1977 Betty and her family moved to Los Alamitos, CA which is where she resided until moving to OakView in 2019.

Betty spent many years as both a medical and mental health nurse throughout her life with the majority of her professional career being spent within the LA area. Additionally, while working full time and raising two sons she achieved a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Long Beach State University. Betty finally retired from Los Angeles County, however continued to work part time for many years into her late 70s.

Betty was full of adventure and traveled to all seven continents. When her boys were young, they spent a summer vacation in Mexico to be immersed in the language and culture.

Betty was known for being sociable and had friends from all different backgrounds spanning the globe. She brought light and joyfulness wherever she was and will be greatly missed. Betty is survived by her loving family that was blessed to have her in their lives.