FAIRHURST, Gilbert M.

The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona Friday, November 22, 2013 Gilbert M. Fairhurst was born in Los Angeles Aug. 4, 1933, and lost his long battle with cancer and Alzheimer's on Friday, Nov. 15, 2013. Gilbert was predeceased by his parents Ethel and Gilbert Fairhurst. He leaves behind to mourn his loss his loving wife of 34 years, Tricia; his special daughter, Sheryl Fairhurst Bartlett from California; and two sons, Mike and Brian. He had a special relationship with his stepson Ron Wynn of Prescott. Also remaining is his sister, Lucille Vance of Galt, Calif. Gilbert also had a number of grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind many friends, some from kindergarten, some new here in Arizona where he moved in 2005. Gilbert served in the Korean War, leaving high school before graduating to do so. When he was 50 he did two things to better his life: He stopped smoking and got his GED. Gilbert worked more than 40 years in the California oilfield business as a mechanic. He was known as "the go-to guy" - one that could make even obsolete things work again. He just called himself a "junkyard mechanic"! In 1994, he followed Tricia into working in corrections at 61 years of age. They both worked at Wasco State Prison and mostly the same night shift. Gilbert said it was the best job he'd ever had. Gilbert accepted The Lord as his Savior in the early 80s, so we know he's at peace now and we'll see him in the future. He still will be missed by all, especially his cat, Charity, who doesn't stop looking for him. By his request, there will be no services. The family wants to thank Hospice Family Care and Prescott Manor for their kindness in Gilbert's last two weeks. Information provided by survivors.