Darrell Fahey

All who knew Darrell Fahey would agree that he was larger than life. He lived to inspire others, and his zest for life was contagious to all who were near. Darrell treasured his family and friends above all else, and he was happiest when surrounded by their love. Strong, hardworking, and sacrificial, he was a blessing in the lives of so many within his community. Life will never be the same without Darrell here, but he leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that his friends and loved ones will forever hold near and dear to their hearts.

The 1960s were a vibrant time in America, which only seems appropriate when reflecting on the life of Darrell Fahey. It was a decade when we elected the young John F. Kennedy as our 35th President of the United States, only to mourn his death just a short time later. This was the decade of rock ’n roll as well, and by the end of the decade we had put the first man on the moon. It was on September 3, 1968, that Darrell was welcomed into the world by his parents, Robert and Sandra (Travis) Fahey, in Ionia, Michigan. He was one of nine as he was joined in his family by his siblings, Duane, Teresa, Scott, Joshua, Paul, Martha, Rose and Isaac. Darrell’s father worked in manufacturing while his mother was in the Air Force and later worked for the United States Post Office.

Raised in Hubbardston, Darrell was a typical young boy of his generation in many ways. He enjoyed things like reading adventure books such as The Hardy Boys and often created his own adventure while playing with friends and family including the Cunninghams, Daileys, and other Fahey's (Jack and Ann’s children). In the winter Darrell could often be found digging forts out of snowbanks and sledding while in the summer he enjoyed skiing, swimming, and campfires at Lake Montcalm. Darrell was a sports fanatic and collected both baseball and football cards. He was a student at local schools and graduated from high school in Carson City in 1987. From there, Darrell graduated from Michigan State University and then Cooley Law School. During his earliest years he worked at a local gas station as well as a local grocery store. Social and outgoing, Darrell was known to host parties for his classmates and area locals. He was notably liked for his outgoing personality and sense of humor and was even voted class clown.

Throughout his life Darrell was known for his strong work ethic. While attending law school, he taught history part-time to junior high school students, which was a great fit as he had a lifelong love for history. In true Darrell style, he mastered the challenge with firm commitment and a sense of humor. A true patriot, he served as a sergeant in the United States Army and was stationed in Thailand and Haiti. While practicing law he enjoyed providing justice and good debate, and he was known as someone who was dependable, competent, and honest. Darrell was well-liked by all he came into contact with.

Nothing was more important to Darrell than his loved ones. He met the love of his life, Angela Porubsky, while at a running event. They discovered they had much in coming such as traveling, running, and music. They also grew up in close communities and graduated in the same year. Throughout their time together, they had a relationship that has been described as fun-loving. They exchanged their vows at the opera house in Grand Ledge in 2010. Darrell loved spending time with his family on Lake Michigan, especially tossing Jace around in the water, and Lake Montcalm family gatherings and weekends were among the moments he loved most. Darrell enjoyed being an uncle and liked spending time with his nieces and nephews, and some of the most priceless memories they made together were when he would take them to MSU ball games as he was a huge fan of MSU basketball and football. Among his favorite vacations were the ones they took to Maine and Martha’s Vineyard as well as to Seattle, Hawaii and annual Up North (UP) trips. Darrell looked forward to hanging out with the “Hubb guys” at Bill and Barb Cunningham’s during deer hunting season. The best hunting days were always those when he successfully took down a buck.

Always one to keep busy, Darrell was a man of many interests. He was a sports fanatic and could recite sport facts as a matter of fact at any time. While stationed in Seattle, Darrell enjoyed grunge bands and attended several venues most notably to see Pearl Jam and Alice in Chains. A sports lover, Darrell was also a huge Detroit Tiger fan who also enjoyed snow skiing with his military buddies in Washington.

Even as he faced the fight for his life, Darrell was a man of great strength. He remained positive and never lost hope, even stating that he didn’t fear death but just loved living life. Darrell was known for his great character, and he was a continuous example of responsibility, hard work, and unconditional love.

Darrell lost his battle with cancer on the evening on Saturday, December 26, 2020. A service , with military honors, to celebrate his life will be announced.

With a life that spanned times of great change in the world around him, Darrell Fahey was a gift in the lives of so many around him. He inspired others through his example and through his words, his life a gift to so many. Darrell was a loving family man, and he treasured each and every moment spent with the ones he loved most. He will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know and love him.

Betzler Life Story Funeral Home, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900