William Martin Fairhurst

William “Bill” Martin (Sonnenburg) Fairhurst was born September 9, 1945, in Minot North Dakota to Edna Viola Lane and James Louis Sonnenburg. Bill graduated Great Falls High School, and then went on to attend the University of Montana before joining the United States Army, 173rd Airborne Brigade. After returning to Great Falls from Vietnam, Bill met and married the love of his life, Grace Keever on October 16, 1969.They had two daughters, and 51 wonderful and loving years together. Bill was a hard worker throughout his life. He showcased his skills through his ventures as an entrepreneur and businessman. One of his joys was being part owner of the J Bar T Roadhouse & Casino. Through the bar business, he became well known in the community and gained so many great friends whom he loved like family. Bill has also made a name for himself for his incredible running speed because he was one of the fastest runners that came out of Great Falls High.Besides track, he had a deep love for softball as well. He earned the nickname crazy legs. Bill would coach his daughters and volunteer in any way that he could within the sporting community. Bill is survived by his wife, Grace Fairhurst; sisters, Debby Sonnenburg, Floral Sonnenburg, and Nonie Lane; brothers, Jim (Diana) Sonnenburg, Oney (Candi) Fairhurst, and Fred (Susan) Fairhurst; children, Paula Fairhurst Kralich, and Dena (Randy) Fairhurst Pachek, Thomas (Kathy and children) Lamere; grandchildren, Gensen Kralich, Tanner Kralich, Sydnee Pachek, and RJ Pachek; his special little buddy, Kaleb AKA Little Bill (Trina Palmer); and all of his nieces and nephews. In addition, over father’s day weekend nine months ago, Bill had the pleasure of meeting his long lost daughter (Pam (Bill and Family) Berneau) who was born before his marriage with Grace. Bill is preceded in death by his mother, Edna Lane and his father, James Sonnenburg. There will be a celebration of Bill’s life at a later date.