James J. Fairbanks, 87 of Tuscon, AZ., formerly of Bement, IL., passed away on May 17, 2013 in Tuscon. He was born to James and Ella Fairbanks on August 20, 1925 in Bement. He graduated from Bement High School in 1943, playing football and clarinet; then earned a B.S. Degree from James Millikin University in Decatur, IL. in 1949. He was a member of the Delta Sigma Phi fraternity. Jim served in World War II with the Army Air Force as a member of a B-29 aircrew.

His first position was as field engineer for Borg Warner Corporation, becoming a member of Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin. He later was promoted to sales manager in Toledo, OH., finally taking early retirement and moving to Tuscon in 1978. He then worked as a salesman and broker with Long Realty, Cottonwood Properties, Estes Corporation and A.F Sterling Corporation.

He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Betty; as sister, Sarah (Sally) Moore of Monticello, sons, David, Joel (Teresa), Jeffrey; and daughter Julie; and grandchildren Claire and Andrew Fairbanks; Candace, Stefan and Danielle Looft. A celebration of Jim’s life was held for family and friends at the family home.

Roux — Hinds Funeral Home, Bement, IL. has been entrusted by his family to serve and honor Jim’s life.