Ned A. Fairbank, age 90, of Bradner, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 10, 2026, surrounded by his loving family in the comfort of his home.
Ned was born on May 8, 1936, in Bradner, Ohio, to the late Milo W. and Arvilla M. (Weider) Fairbank. On November 15, 1958, he married the love of his life, Marlene L. Paul, at St. James Lutheran Church in Bradner. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, family, and cherished memories until Marlene’s passing on October 24, 2020.
Surviving Ned are his loving children, Leslie (Jeff) Stanford of Perrysburg, Perri Garber of Bradner, Ned (Julie) Fairbanks II of Bradner, Amy (Matthew) Mullholand of Risingsun, Angela Fairbanks-Kern of Risingsun, and Cory (Jacki) Fairbanks of Bradner; brothers, Kenneth (Lenora) Fairbanks, and Gene (Lou) Fairbanks; 20 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; beloved wife, Marlene; brother, Richard Fairbanks; and granddaughter, Sarah Garber.
Ned was a 1954 graduate of Montgomery Local High School and went on to proudly serve his country in the United States Marine Corps. Following his military service, he built a career in the electrical trade and was a member of the IBEW Local 8 Electrical Union.
He served as both a board member and president of the Lakota School Board, dedicating his time and leadership to supporting local education. He also spent many years coaching, sharing his knowledge, encouragement, and love of sports with younger generations. Whether serving on a board, coaching a team, or simply lending a hand to a neighbor, Ned was someone who could always be counted on.
Ned enjoyed spending time outdoors. He had a passion for hunting, fishing, camping, and golfing, and following retirement, he especially enjoyed traveling and experiencing new places. These activities brought him great happiness, but it was the time spent with family and friends that made those moments truly meaningful.
Ned leaves behind a beautiful legacy of service, compassion, and love. Although he will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and community, the lessons he taught, the memories he created, and the countless acts of kindness he shared will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Friends will be received from 10-11 AM on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at Bradner Cemetery, where a Graveside Service will begin at 11 AM, with Military Honors performed by the Wood County AMVETS Honor Detail. All arrangements have been entrusted to Barndt Funeral Home in Wayne. Online condolences can be sent to Ned’s family at www.barndtfuneralhome.org.
