AUBURN-Wanda Frances (Biegay) Fairbrother died peacefully in her sleep on October 13, 2010 after a long illness. She was 85.
The next-to-youngest of six, she was born May 8, 1925 in Worcester to Mary Drezek and Joseph Biegay who immigrated to the United States from Poland. Wanda graduated from Commerce High School in the class of 1943, working at Telechron Company until married. She went on to become a loving mother, talented cook, homemaker, craftswoman, and generous friend to many. Wanda was well-known by those close to her for her broad creativity. Her work included elaborate, hand stitched Barbie doll clothes, hand-made quilts, afghans, kitchen witches, Christmas angels, Amish dolls, wreaths and patch-work duck decoy door stoppers. Advanced macular degeneration eventually made it impossible for her to continue her cherished hobbies. She courageously fought and defeated breast cancer in the late 1980’s and more recently battled against diabetes and dementia until her death.
She is survived by her loving husband of nearly 60 years, Arthur William Fairbrother of Auburn, and her four beloved children; Mary Ann Kristan of Worcester, Judith Andrea Fairbrother of Saint Paul, MN, Lisa Marie Wilson of Sandy, UT and Robert Sanford Fairbrother of Auburn. She is also survived by her brother Raymond Biegay and sister Statia Biegay, both of Auburn, and her treasured grandchildren; Monica Kristan, Michael Kristan, Andrew Wilson, Laura Wilson, and great grandson Andrew Kristan. Her brothers Joseph Biegay, Stanley Biegay and sister Helen (Biegay) Janaitis predeceased her.
The family gratefully acknowledges the care and comfort provided by staff and residents of the Beaumont of Worcester-Skilled Nursing and Adult Care facility. The family would also like to offer heart-felt thanks to the long-time friendship of Laura Asselta and Marjorie Thurston, and to Wendy Lane, Garrett Wilson and Curt Corazzini for their love and support of both Wanda, and her children.
In honor and respect of her wishes the burial ceremony and memorial service will be private. Anyone wishing to honor Mrs. Fairbrother’s memory may make a donation to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701, the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312, the Alzheimer’s Association 311 Arsenal St Watertown, MA 02472-2782 or Worcester Interfaith, 111 Park Ave., Worc., MA 01609. Arrangements are under the care of LINDQUIST LUNDIN FUNERAL HOME, 36 Butler Street. To place an online condolence please visit www.lindquistlundin.com