Photo courtesy of Broomhead Funeral Home - Riverton
Riverton, Utah
May 28, 1954 – Mar 5, 2026
Stanley Ivan Fairbourn, age 71, Taylorsville, UT, passed away peacefully at his home on March 5, 2026, surrounded by his loving family after a long battle with cancer. Stan was born on May 28, 1954, in Draper, Utah to Dorothy May Sorenson and Ivan Lynn Fairbourn. He grew up in Draper and graduated from Jordan High School. Stan was a proud veteran, with more than 24 years in both the Army and the Navy and he served in Vietnam. Stan was also employed at Utah Transit Authority for 16 years, where he drove one million accident-free miles.
Stan married the love of his life, Elaine Fairbourn, on November 11, 1987, in Elko, NV. They loved spending time together traveling, with Wendover as a favorite destination. Stan was an outdoorsman, who enjoyed fishing at Strawberry Reservoir, hunting, and camping with family. Stan especially loved being “Papa Stan” and attending all his grandchildren’s events.
Stan is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Elaine. His sisters: Deanna Bodily, Leah Cosgrove, and Brenda (Steve) Gordon. His children: Frank (Jenni) Vargo, Craig (Amelia) Vargo, Suzanne (Wayne) Hertel, Amber Edwards, and Amy Hamilton. His grandchildren: Nicci Stowell, Chad (Megan) Vargo, Colton Tran, Megan (Jamey) Green, Shaun (Kelly) Vargo, Steven (Natalie) Vargo, Grayson Hertel, Lexi Vargo, Ryan Hertel, Ben Edwards, Madison Hamilton, and Spencer Hamilton. His great grandchildren: Dailey, Connor, Hudson, Sadie, Boe, Emily, Julia, Kennedy, and one baby girl on the way. Stan was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Stephen Fairbourn, and his son-in-law Matt Edwards.
A viewing will be held on March 10, 2026 at 6 PM, with a service to follow at 7 PM, at Broomhead Funeral Home, 12600 South 2200 West Riverton, Utah 84065.
A graveside service with military honors will be held on March 11, 2026 at 11 AM at Utah Veterans Memorial Park, 17111 S 1700 W Bluffdale, UT 84065
Read MoreI have many found memories of my childhood going to events and always seeing my Uncle Stan there! I also ran into you while I was living in Utah and got on your bus. Rest easy my Tio!
Matthew Garcia
March 09, 2026 | East Peoria, IL | Family
Elaine,
My sincere condolence for the loss of Stan, your 'world' a wonderful husband and best friend. I was lucky to have known him during our family gatherings when I lived in Utah. You were blessed 38 years together, cherish every memory, he will always be with you. Sending much love and hugs to you my dear cousin. I love you!
Linda
Linda Zimmer
March 09, 2026 | Queen Creek, AZ | Family
I really miss my grandpa, I loved him a lot. I was one of the only ones that he spoke to, and lucky to be one. He taught me a lot about patience and freedom. We talked about ships, planes and history lots and lots. It is not easy to say goodbye, but I do imagine him and my great grandfather together now and that brings comfort. May his eternal life be easier than his earthly life.
Ben Edwards
March 08, 2026 | Kearns, UT | Grandchild
It was a pleasure being your next door neighbor for the last 6 years,I knew you before we became neighbors and you will be sorely missed,see you on the other side
Kelly Mounteer
March 08, 2026 | Taylorsville, UT | Friend
Being a friend to Elaine and Stan I'm so sadden to hear of his passing and my heartfelt sympathy goes out to Elaine and his entire family. May his memories provide comfort and healing to all that knew Stan. May a flight of Angels take him to his rest. Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him...Ave Maria.....
Anna Marie Caputo
March 07, 2026 | Salt Lake City, UT | Friend