WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Candy Christine Fairbanks, age 52, of Lansing, and a former resident of Sturgis, passed away Sunday, April 5, 2026, at her home.
She was born on June 11, 1973 in LaGrange, daughter of Michael and Teresa Rae (Baird) Christner.
Candy resided in Lansing for over 25 years, coming from Sturgis, where she graduated with the Class of 1991 from Sturgis High School. She went on to further her education at Glen Oaks Community College in Centreville, earning her associate degree, and later attended Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant.
On December 31, 1999, she married Daniel Fairbanks in Maui, Hawaii. He preceded her in death on November 20, 2023.
Candy was employed by O’Leary Paint Company in Lansing for over 18 years as an executive administrative assistant. She will be remembered not only for her dedication to her work, but especially for the love and compassion she showed to the animals in her life. Her pets were truly her family, and she found great joy in caring for them, capturing their personalities through her photography, and sharing a special bond that brought her comfort and happiness each day.
She is survived by her beloved dog, Maxx, who was a constant and faithful companion; her mother and stepfather, Teresa and Jeffrey Sampson of Sturgis; her sister, Michelle (Jason) Toller of Mount Sterling, Kentucky; her stepsisters, Teana Sampson and Mindy (Huracio) Cardiel, both of Sturgis; her stepbrother, Joshua (Michelle) Sampson of Wilson; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband; her father; her grandparents; her cherished dogs, Khloe and Cooper; and her cat, Bree, all of whom held a very special place in her heart.
In honoring Candy’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are planned.
The Hackman Family Funeral Homes of Sturgis is entrusted with the arrangements.
In recognition of Candy’s deep love for animals, memorial donations may be directed to the Animal Rescue Fund, P.O. Box 593, Centreville, MI 49032.
We encourage relatives and friends to share memories and condolences at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com
