George Trafton Fairchild, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and community pillar, passed away on April 11, 2024, at the age of 87. Born on May 15, 1936, to William T. and Dorothy (Duffey) Fairchild. George lived a life filled with love, family, generosity, and service to others.
On May 16, 1959, George married the love of his life, Phyllis (Stein), and together they raised a beautiful family on Lake Springfield, where they have resided since 1965. George is survived by his wife Phyllis; children, Shawn M. Andrews (Clay Crocker), Leslie K. Casper, G. Matthew Fairchild and Sarah A. Albracht (Bryan); and sister, Charlotte Anne Littlepage (Sterling). He was a proud grandfather to Nicole Dennison (Bob), W. Tyler Casper, Madeleine Giovannelli (Anthony), Lucas Albracht (Jesse), Isaac Albracht (Demi), and Emma Fairchild; and a loving great-grandfather to Jack, Paige, Liam, and Luca.
A graduate of Rochester High School (1954), George attended the University of Illinois, Springfield Jr. College and graduated from Illinois College in Jacksonville in 1960. During his school years, George played trumpet in the band and was an exceptional athlete, excelling in track, baseball, and basketball. He had fond memories of his time playing basketball for Illinois College. George proudly served his country in the US Army, both active and reservist duty.
George's remarkable 40-year career with Dairy Queen began in 1960 when he started as the manager of the 6th Street Dairy Queen store. His leadership and dedication quickly led him to become General Manager and later Vice President of Illini Dairy Queen, overseeing operations for 30 stores throughout Central and Southern Illinois until his retirement. George's commitment to his community was exemplified through his volunteer work as a tutor at St. Patrick Catholic School, where he touched the lives of countless young people over 23 years. He mentored a handful of students into their adult years, and all still affectionately call him "Grandpa George." His service to the school earned him the Blarney Bash Leprechaun Honor and 2020 Heart of Gold Service Award. In the early 70s, George served on the Boy's Farm Board of Directors (currently known as Rutledge Youth Foundation). George was an active supporter of the Springfield Art Association, Lincoln Memorial Gardens, and a 50-year member of Island Bay Yacht Club.
A man of faith, George was a longtime member of First Methodist Church. He embodied kindness, generosity, and selflessness, always putting his family first. His favorite pastimes included reading (as many as 100 books per year), volunteering, fixing things around the house, and spending time with his loved ones at their farm in Rochester and Lake Springfield home. George's love for music included everything from jazz to Journey, and patriotic hymns, which he enthusiastically shared with his grandchildren.
George will be remembered for his annual July 4th celebrations, where he welcomed friends, family, and even strangers to celebrate the country he loved. His gentle spirit and caring nature touched the lives of countless individuals.
A true family man and leading light of the Rochester and Springfield communities, George Trafton Fairchild leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication that will forever be cherished by those who were blessed to know him. George and Phyllis's rock-solid marriage was a beautiful enduring example to all. They will celebrate 65 years this May.
A Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 pm, on Thursday, April 18, 2024, at Butler Funeral Home - Springfield, 900 S. 6th Street, Springfield, Illinois.
A Funeral Ceremony will be held at 10 am, on Friday, April 19, 2024, at Cherry Hills Church, 2125 Woodside Road, Springfield, Illinois, followed by private burial at Rochester Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Patrick Catholic School, 1800 S. Grand Ave. E., Springfield, IL 62703 or at www.st-patrick.org
