Michael Joseph Faubion Sr.

Michael Joseph Faubion Sr. passed away peacefully at home at Faubion Junction in Liberty, Missouri, on October 8, 2026, surrounded by his loving family following a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on January 9, 1962, in Chillicothe, Missouri, to Franklin and Peggy Faubion. He was preceded in death by his parents and his baby sister, Ruth Faubion. A beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend, Mike held a special place in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Mike married his childhood friend and soulmate, Tricia, on December 16, 1989. Having first met as teenagers, they shared a lifelong bond. A chivalrous and devoted husband, he always opened doors for Tricia, held her hand, and insisted on driving. Together, they built a life centered on shared dreams and family.

Michael lived a life defined by hard work, resilience, humor, and above all, love for his family. He is survived by his wife, Patricia, and his seven children: Michael Faubion Jr., Alison Faubion (John Lujan), Danielle Faubion, Stephanie Myrick, Jeffrey Faubion (Heather), Amanda Faubion, and Michelle Shoemaker. He was a proud grandfather, affectionately known as “Poppy” to 15 grandchildren who brought him immense joy. Some of their fondest memories include trips for ice cream and watching trains together at the train yard. He was also a great-grandfather to one, with two more on the way. Mike is survived by his three sisters, who thought of him as their superhero: Novalea Baker of Spickard, Missouri; Barbara Edwards (Carter) of Jackson, Tennessee; and Elonda Sharp (Kelvin) of Trenton, Missouri. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

Mike's extraordinary work ethic began at just 14 years old, when he started painting signals for the Milwaukee Railroad. He went on to work as a machine operator for the Soo Line Railroad before eventually retiring as a conductor for the Canadian Pacific Railway. Throughout his railroad career, he was a proud member of the United Transportation Union (UTU). He also worked at Ford Motor Company on the assembly line in trim and chassis. Even retirement couldn't keep Mike still for long; he thoroughly enjoyed driving for Uber and sharing stories of his adventures on the road.

Outside of work, Mike had a wide range of interests that reflected his curiosity, creativity, and enthusiasm for life. A skilled woodworker, he took pride in creating things with his hands. He had an infectious passion for the Chicago Bears and enjoyed watching Bears games with the whole family. Recently, he realized a lifelong dream of traveling to Alaska by way of an Alaskan cruise. World history intrigued him, and he was essentially an encyclopedia on the subject. Mike was quick with math and enjoyed spending time at the shooting range. He was a muscle car enthusiast, collected old railroad lanterns, and loved showing people the sights of Colorado during the time he lived there. He loved celebrating the holidays with his family, especially Halloween, Christmas, and the Fourth of July.

Those who knew Mike will remember not only what he loved, but the kind of person he was. Rarely without his watch, it was important to him to be on time. His calming presence provided comfort to those around him. Mike was strong-willed, dependable, kind-hearted, and always willing to lend a helping hand. He had a quiet way of showing his love through generosity, being present, and his thoughtful actions. His family could always count on him, and he took that responsibility to heart. He also had a gift for making people laugh, and if he gave you a nickname, you knew you held a special place in his heart. It was one of the many ways he showed his love. His loyal companion, Sofie, affectionately known as his “dopey dog,” was rarely far from his side.

Mike leaves behind a legacy of hard work, laughter, and lasting memories filled with love. We will think of him often, especially when we use the nicknames he gave us, have one of his favorite treats—malts, Coca-Cola cake, and orange slice candies—and watch the Bears games. His familiar “Cool, cool” will always bring him to mind, and when life feels difficult, we can still hear his reassuring words, “It will all come out in the wash.” Though he will be deeply missed, the love he gave, the lessons he taught, and the memories he created will remain with his family for generations to come.

A Visitation and Reception will be held 12 - 3 p.m., Sunday, October 18 at Newcomer's White Chapel Funeral Home, 6600 NE Antioch Rd., Gladstone, MO 64119.