Obituary of Ralph A. Fairbairn

Ralph Andrew Fairbairn, age 86, of Joliet, passed away peacefully, Friday, May 6, 2022 at Lightways Hospice with his loving family by his side.

Born September 29, 1935 in Joliet, he was the son of Leroy R. and Julia R. (Pasteris) Fairbairn.  Ralph worked as an electrician for IVEX Paper Mill for 46 years.

Ralph loved his classic cars and attending car shows with his brothers was a favorite activity.  He was also an animal lover.  He was the kindest man in the world, and will be remembered for his loving and caring ways, his distinctive whistle, and his beautiful blue eyes.  Ralph and his brothers enjoyed going to the New Lenox McDonalds every day for coffee and good conversation with their friends.  He will be missed most of all by his beloved dog, Mollie.

He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Jacqueline D. (Gordon) Fairbairn; his devoted children, Caryn (Gerald) Fortner, Kristine (Robert) Fairbairn and Dyann (Patrick) Sallese; his adoring grandchildren, Brandon Fortner, Cristy Fortner, Francisco (Alyssa) Juarez, Jesseca Juarez, Adam Juarez, Joshua Sanders, Isabella Sallese, Angela Sallese, and Skylar Vantreese; two dear brothers, Robert (the late Helen “Toots”) Fairbairn and Ronald (Dorae) Fairbairn; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by one daughter, Jamee Fairbairn; his parents; and a sister, Judith, in infancy.

Visitation for Ralph Fairbairn will be held Wednesday, May 11, 2022 from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., at Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Road, Joliet.  Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 12, 2022 at 10:00 a.m., at the funeral home.  Interment will follow at Elmhurst Cemetery, Joliet. 

For more information, please call 815-741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com