Lorena Helen Fairbanks Obituary (2025)

With deep sorrow and love, we announce the passing of our beloved matriarch, Lorena Helen (Mitseff) Fairbanks, on February 25, 2025. She was a cherished sister, wife, mother, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a dear friend to so many. Lorena was born on July 2, 1928, at Saint Elizabeth Hospital, in Yakima, Washington. Growing up in a loving and nurturing home, she spent her childhood immersed in the joys and responsibilities of working on the family farm. Her education began in the local elementary school, and she later attended Wapato High School. During her senior year, she was crowned Queen of the Wapato Harvest Festival, an honor highlighting her vibrant spirit. After graduation, Lorena worked at an insurance agency in Wapato, where fate introduced her to Leroy "Roy" Fairbanks, a young World War II veteran. The two shared a romance for the ages-filled with laughter, dancing, and the thrill of riding on Roy's motorcycle through the picturesque Lower Valley, his scarf fluttering in the wind, symbolizing their spirit. They were married on November 22, 1947, embarking on a lifelong partnership filled with love and dedication. Together, Lorena and Roy built a home on 22nd Avenue in Yakima, with only minimal assistance from a contractor. There, they raised their two sons, Randy and Gary. Their home became a place of warmth and celebration, complete with a backyard swimming pool and deck, that handcrafted with love alongside their sons. It was the heart of family gatherings, where holidays, barbecues, and happy hours were filled with joy, storytelling, and togetherness for nearly six decades. A place where all were welcome. Lorena and Roy shared a rare and enduring love, building a strong home for both Randy and Gary, as well as their future families. Lorena found her greatest joy in time spent with loved ones and took special delight in hosting friends around her kitchen bar, and in doting on her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Lorena was a woman of extraordinary character, resilient, wise, and strong-willed, yet always quick with a smile and a sharp-witted remark. She was a compassionate listener, offering comfort, understanding, and sage advice, even when the truth was difficult to hear. Her presence filled every room with warmth and laughter. A true farm girl at heart, she had an unmatched work ethic and an undeniable passion for gardening, reading, watching sports, playing cards (especially Blackjack), canning, and perfecting her famous Snakes (Grandma's Peppers). She adored animals, especially her beloved dog, Taz, who was her loyal companion and constant source of joy for many years. No family gathering was complete without her signature three flavors of Jello shots, a tradition that will live on in her honor. Lorena is survived by her brother, Ronnie (Pat) Mitseff, who fondly remembers their shared childhood and friendship; her daughters-in-law, Judi (Ibach) Fairbanks (wife of Randy) and Judy (Fuge) Fairbanks (wife of Gary); and her beloved grandchildren: Benjamin (Adrianne) Fairbanks, Sarah (Kristoffer) Falcon, Rachel Fairbanks, Samantha Fairbanks, and Katie (Nate) Craig. Her legacy continues through them and her eight great-grandchildren; Ava and Wyatt Fairbanks, Dominic, Helena, and Felicity Falcon, Tyson Inge, and Cash and Reese Craig, who will always cherish the memories of her love, generosity, and a Butterfinger at every visit. Lorena is also survived by her nieces and nephews from the Mitseff and Wentz families. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Roy, her sons, Randy and Gary, her sister, Juanita, and brother-in-law, Jim Wentz, as well as her niece, Jaime Wentz. Faith was a cornerstone of Lorena's life. She was a devoted and regular attendee at St. Paul's Cathedral for over 50 years. A Rosary will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 9:00am, at St. Paul Cathedral. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 9:30, officiated by Fr. Michael Ibach. Following the Mass, she will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery in Yakima. A Reception and a heartfelt celebration of Lorena's life will then take place immediately afterward, at the West Valley Fire Station. Lorena's love, strength, and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. She will be dearly missed but will live on in the memories we cherish and in the family she so deeply loved. And so, in her own favorite words, we say our loving goodbye: "Toodle-oo, Lorena." Shaw & Sons Funeral Home is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.shawandsons.com.