Thelma R. Fairbanks (Tanka), 86, of Lakline Village, Ohio passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, November 15, 2025, surrounded by family.
She was born February 13, 1939, in Cleveland, Ohio to the late Leonard Tanka and Lucile (James) Werner.
Thelma was a member of First Christian Church, Disciples of Christ in Willoughby for 65 years and worked at Rudy's Quality Meats in Willowick for 40 years.
She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Donald L. Fairbanks; children, Mike (Kathy) Fairbanks, David (Karen) Fairbanks, Laura (Ken) Farabaugh, Carole (Jeff) Stergar and Kathleen (Nick) Bartoszek; "Grandma" to Mike (Gina) Fairbanks, Samantha (John) Rogers, Abigail Fairbanks, Kathryn (Tibor) Lakatos, Evan Fairbanks, Kenneth (Neetu) Farabaugh, Elisse (Joey) Greenleaf, Jared Stergar, Daniel Stergar, Brian Stergar, Lauren Bartoszek (Carmen Toth, fiancé) and Megan Bartoszek; "Gigi" to 8 great-grandchildren with a 9th "on the way;" sister, Martha (Norbert) Fox; brother-in-laws, Harold (Alexa) Fairbanks and Michael Maloney; sister-in-law, Janet (Charles) Barton.
Thelma was preceded in death by her parents, Leonard Tanka and Lucile (James) Werner; paternal grandparents, Michael and Anna Tanka; maternal grandparents, Thelma Kluge and Raymond James; sister, Kathryn Maloney.
A Celebration of Life with burial at Western Reserve Memorial Gardens will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve or a charity of your choice.
Lake Erie Cremation and Funeral Services, 29801 Lakeland Blvd, Wickliffe, Ohio 44092 assisted the family with arrangements.
www.LakeErieCrematory.com