March 6, 1953 – August 21, 2022

Our beloved Darlene Kay Fairbanks, age 69, began her journey to the Spirit World on August 21, 2022. Born March 6th, 1953 in Minneapolis, Darlene was the daughter of Herschel and Emma Fairbanks and a light in our family.

She was funny and optimistic, an amazing listener, and entirely selfless. She loved playing BINGO, going to the casino, and reading sappy romance novels. An avid thrift shopper and the world’s best fry bread maker, Darlene was a mother to everyone, offering her love, support and guidance, even to strangers.

She is survived by her lifelong partner, Richard Cox; sons: Richard Fairbanks, Jamison (Shawna) and Robin Cox; daughter: Tala Fairbanks; brothers: Doug and Keith Fairbanks; sisters: Shirley Jourdain, Cleone Thompson, Karen (Wayne) Isham and Pamela Fairbanks; 12 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Herschel and Emma Fairbanks and granddaughter, Tessa Fairbanks.

An all-night wake will be held Thursday, August 25, 2022 beginning at 6pm, at the American Indian Center in Minneapolis. Funeral service for Darlene will be held on Friday, August 26th at 10am at the American Indian Center. The spiritual leader will be Barbara Fairbanks. Pallbearers will be Richard Cox, Richard Fairbanks, Jamison and Robin Cox, Antonio Fairbanks, and JJ Cox. The Chilson Funeral Home in Winsted, Minnesota assisted the family with funeral arrangements. On-line condolences can be directed to www.thechilsonfuneralhome.com