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Tragedy strikes local family as father, son die a day apart

  • Posted by The Burbs (Sponsor: North End Motor Sales) December 16, 2023 - Filed in News - 14,189 views

    Norman Fairbanks Sr. and Kenneth Fairbanks (Mulhane Home for Funerals)

    MILLBURY — A family is grappling with a double tragedy as a father and son, Norman C. Fairbanks Sr. and Kenneth S. Fairbanks, passed away within a day of each other earlier this week. The loss leaves their family and friends in shock and mourning.

    According to tributes on the Mulhane Home for Funerals website, the heartbreaking turn of events unfolded as Norman Sr., 82, succumbed to a major heart attack on Monday, December 11th, while his son Kenny, 58, passed away on Tuesday, December 12th, after battling a long illness.

    Norman Sr.'s sudden passing came as a devastating blow to the Fairbanks family. According to his obituary, he had recently received COVID and flu shots, which ultimately led to heart damage that resulted in the fatal heart attack. He was surrounded by his loving family as he took his last breath at Saint Vincent Hospital in Worcester.

    The unexpected loss of Norman Sr. came just a day before his son Kenny's passing. Kenny, who had been battling a long illness, left behind a daughter, Amanda "Tiger" Fairbanks, his mother Joanne Fairbanks, and his sister Katherine "Chatty" Fairbanks. His legacy also includes his niece Megan Ricardi, nephew Jared Carlson, niece Rachel "Chi Chi" Houlden, and many extended family members and friends.

    Kenny was known for his work in concrete before a severe back injury altered the course of his life. He shared an exceptionally close bond with his father, living next door to his parents and helping his dad with their mini-farm. Family and friends remember Kenny for his love for his daughter, his dedication to his family, and his fondness for "Lite" beer.

    Norman Sr. was a beloved figure in the community, known for his warm personality and deep connections. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 62 years, Joanne (Davis) Fairbanks, and a daughter, Katherine Fairbanks. He is also survived by five grandchildren, Megan Ricardi, Jared Carlson, Rachel Houlden, Amanda Fairbanks, and Rebekah Fairbanks, along with nine great-grandchildren.

    A Teamster by profession, Norman Sr. retired from United Parcel Service in 2002 after a remarkable 32-year career as a commercial truck driver. He had a passion for Amish Country in Kinzer, Pennsylvania, where he forged lasting friendships and enjoyed working in the fields. Back home in West Millbury, he cherished his mini-farm and took great pride in caring for his beloved sheep and chickens. Norman Sr. was a skilled mechanic and a diligent worker who found solace in splitting firewood at his barn.

    The Millbury community has been deeply affected by this tragic loss, with both father and son remembered as kind-hearted individuals who touched the lives of many.

    Their Funeral Mass is scheduled to be celebrated at 10 a.m. today, Saturday, December 16th at St. Brigid Church, followed by burial in West Millbury Cemetery.

    Norman's complete obituary can be found here. 

    Kenneth's complete obituary can be found here.

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