Dillon Fairchild

Dillon Edward Fairchild, 34, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away on August 17, 2026. Dillon was a beloved son, father, nephew, cousin, friend, and colleague whose life was defined by his intelligence, big heart, loyalty, humor, adventurous spirit, and deep love for his family. Dillon graduated from Hayden High School and went on to attend Kansas State University, where he earned his degree and had the opportunity to work in the Johnson Cancer Research Lab. His passion for science and his desire to make a difference led him into a nearly decade-long career in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. Throughout his career, Dillon worked with Hospira, Inc., Pfizer, Immatics, Talaris Therapeutics, Bellicum Pharmaceuticals, and Longeveron, Inc. He served as a biological systems engineer, leading process validation and bringing his intelligence, determination, and problem-solving abilities to work that he took great pride in. While Dillon accomplished much professionally, his greatest love was his family. Nothing made him prouder than being a father to his children, Jack and Chloe. They were the center of his world, and some of his happiest moments were spent sharing life with them. Whether playing video games together, working on projects, or simply enjoying time as a family, Dillon treasured the memories he made with his children. His love for them was evident to everyone who knew him. Dillon had many interests that reflected his curious, creative, and adventurous nature. He enjoyed metalworking and had an appreciation for eclectic tools and the satisfaction of making, fixing, and creating things with his own hands as well as being a talented guitarist. He loved video games, especially when he could share them with Jack and Chloe. His friends will remember his wonderful sense of humor, his big heart, unwavering loyalty, and his willingness to embrace adventure. Dillon had a way of making people laugh, making people feel welcome, and being there when those he cared about needed him. Dillon is survived by his children, Jack and Chloe; his parents, Eddie and Jeannie Fairchild; his former wife, Bri Fairchild; his aunt and uncle, Diane and Chris Westling; his great-uncle, Beryl Wilson; and his cousins, Miguel Aponte, Roland Westling, Erin Lardner, and Katelynn Lardner, Lyla & Jerry Rock, Karen & Jesse Longoria, Vicki & Ron Lee (godparents) and Cindy Ballenger, and countless Fairchild cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Joseph “Buzzy” and Donna Lardner and Lyle and Jean Fairchild; his uncle, John Lardner; his aunt, Ann Aponte; and his cousin, Jacob Lardner. A visitation will be held Wednesday, August 19, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m., at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 S.W. Urish Road, Topeka, Kansas, where the rosary will be prayed at 6:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday, August 20, at Mater Dei Holy Name Church, 1114 S.W. 10th Avenue, Topeka, Kansas 66604. Memorial contributions may be made in Dillon’s memory to the Cancer Research Fund, Kansas State University Foundation, P.O. Box 9200, Shawnee Mission, KS 66201-1800, or to Helping Hands Humane Society, 5720 S.W. 21st Street, Topeka, KS 66604. Condolences may be sent online to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com. Dillon’s family extends a heartfelt and grateful thank you to the first responders, rescue teams, and friends who helped during this incredibly difficult time. Dillon was truly blessed to have such caring, compassionate people in his life, and his family will forever be grateful for the love and support shown to him and to them. Though Dillon’s life was far too short, the love he gave, the lives he touched, the laughter he shared, and, most importantly, the love he poured into his children will live on. His memory will forever be carried by those who loved him most.

Dillon Fairchild

May 14, 1992 - August 17, 2026