James A. Fairbank

Fairbank, James A., 52, Davidsville, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Oct. 22, 2017. Born May 13, 1965 in Johnstown. Son of Charles B. and Nancy Jean (Ream) Fairbank. Preceded in death by mother. Survived by father, siblings Brian C., Johnstown, Roger A., and significant other Alane, Irwin, PA, and Kathy E. (Reitz), wife of Tony W. Grimsley, Mt. Sidney, VA. Nieces Bethany and Emily Reitz and Beth Fairbank and nephew Evan Fairbank. Also uncle David Fairbank, Woodstock, VA. Special friends Kim, Shari, Jeff, Dave and many other fraternity brothers. Graduate of Richland High School class of 1983 and a graduate of UPJ, mechanical engineering, class of 1993. He was president of Delta Sigma Chi fraternity. Jim was a US Navy disabled veteran. He served during the Persian Gulf Conflict on the USS Lasalle and the Connole. He was proud of his Navy days and was a large supporter of the Disabled American Veterans group. Jim and his father, who is also a Navy veteran, enjoyed going to veteran affairs and dinners together. He will be sadly missed. Member of the Geistown VFW Post 155 and Windber American Legion Post 137. Jim had just moved into the house of his dreams after his prior house burned down 2 years earlier. He enjoyed his 4 feline friends who kept him company. Avid fan of the Grateful Dead band and traveled many times to hear them. Jim was a "top gun” at dart throwing competitions. Member of the Homestead United Methodist Church. Special thanks to the Veterans Administration for their many years of helping Jim through his difficulties. The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm Friday and from 10 until time of service at 11 am Saturday at Meek & Dalla Valle Funeral Home Inc., Windber. Pastor David Bowman, officiating. Interment Richland Cemetery. Military graveside rites by Geistown VFW Post 155. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to any veteran organizations, Homestead Ave. UMC, or your favorite charity in memory of Jim.