Dale Richard Fairfax

Dale Richard Fairfax

Dale was born in Akron, OH, last son of three - (James & Bill) to Walter & Leah Fairfax, all of whom preceded him in death. Dale's family moved to Delphos, OH, where Walter worked as a mechanical engineer on the railroad. There, Dale developed rheumatic fever in his elementary years and was bedridden for two years. With a private tutor that came to his home, Dale developed a passion for books, history, and everything mechanical (especially cars of the era, steam locomotives and track roadsters).

Dale's mechanical knowledge led him to the doors of General Motors Institute (GMI), in Flint, MI, graduating with a BS in Mechanical Engineering. This was the beginning of his career with GM and where he would meet the love of his life, Dorothy, his wife of 57 years. They started a family having 3 children - Julie, Becky & Jeff - and lived in their fairy tale home on "Dale" Avenue until Dale was transferred to Indianapolis.  After moving to Indianapolis, Dale's dream as a 16 year old - owning a '32 Ford Coupe with a flat head engine - came to fruition after many years of restoration. Dale and his '32 were acknowledged by many car venues and peers. He then restored his '53 Ford truck with a Lincoln motor - again, another work of art! Dale became a true master mechanic and machinist. People in the vintage car circle across the country would consult with him and hire him to produce automotive parts for their specific needs. His extensive knowledge of the automotive industry, (especially Henry Ford and the Ford Motor Company) steam locomotives, and track roadster racing resulted in numerous published articles and co-authoring of published books.  Dale was a member of the Flint Gear Grinders, Indy Idlers, and Winchester Old Timers.

Dale also had another love and that was for the many furry cats - of all colors, size, and breed - that mysteriously found their way to his and Dorothy's door and never left; however, there is one that had a special spot in Dale's heart: ELZIE.

Visitation will be Saturday, January 9, 2016 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12 Noon at Shirley Brothers Fishers-Castleton Chapel, 9900 Allisonville Rd.

Dale is survived by his wife, Dorothy; daughters & son, Julie Heckart (Brian), Becky Hancock (Mark) and Jeff Fairfax (Jacqueline); and five grandchildren, Ashley, Scotty, Caroline, Benjamin and Ali.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Indianapolis. www.shirleybrothers.com.