ROLAND J. FAIRCHILD

Aug. 8, 1930 - Oct. 28, 2010
SOUTH BEND - Roland J. Fairchild, a lifelong resident of South Bend, IN, passed away at 7:55 a.m. Thursday, October 28, 2010 in his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was 80 years old. He was born on August 8, 1930 in South Bend, IN, a son of Virgil and Flossie (Towne) Fairchild.

He attended Washington-Clay High School. On July 9, 1951 he enlisted with the United States Navy during the Korean War. He proudly served his country for four years, and was honorably discharged on July 6, 1955. On November 29, 1952, in South Bend, IN, he married Carol A. DeWald. They have enjoyed nearly 58 years of marriage.

Mr. Fairchild is survived by his loving wife Carol, his two daughters and their husbands, Nelda J. & Brian Jaarda of South Bend, Rhonda Lee & Tim Williams of Osceola, his son and daughter-in-law, Todd A. & Kimberlee Fairchild of White House, TN. Also surviving are nine grandchildren, Nicole (Bobby) Wright, Michael (Amber) Jaarda, John (Jillian) Williams, Mary Williams, Emily Williams, Kalinn Fairchild, Jessica Fairchild, Billie Jo Fairchild and Sarah Fairchild, along with six great grandchildren as well.

Roland was a member of Apostolic Temple in South Bend. He retired as Quality Control Engineer from the AM General Corp. Roland's love and loyalty for his family, friends and God established a solid foundation upon which the lives of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren have been built. He attended church faithfully all his life. Many years he and his wife enjoyed traveling together and camping with family and friends. His most cherished are his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He loved them to the fullest of his heart; being with his family gave him joy and contentment. He had a love for woodworking and woodcarving, a talent of a craftsman. There are many who have these beautiful wood furnishings in their homes today. For many years he spent his mornings with wonderful friends who call him "Rollie" walking at Target and drinking coffee at McDonald's. Those memories of morning walks and special talks with coffee will forever be cherished. His smile and laughter will always be remembered; he was respected and loved by all.

Services celebrating the life of Roland Fairchild will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday, November 1, 2010 at Apostolic Temple, 2221 S. Ironwood, South Bend. Rev. Paul Rowe and Todd Fairchild will officiate. Graveside services and military rites will follow at St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park, Granger, IN. Family and friends may visit from 2:00-6:00 p.m. Sunday in the Palmer Funeral Home-Guisinger Chapel, 3718 S. Michigan St., South Bend, and one hour prior to the services Monday at the Church. Expressions of sympathy on behalf of Mr. Fairchild may be offered to Apostolic Temple, or The Center for Hospice Care, 111 Sunnybrook Court, South Bend, IN 46637. Online condolences to the Fairchild family may be sent to www.palmerfuneralhomes.com

Published by South Bend Tribune on Oct. 30, 2010

10/11/2022 EJS