Gary Michael Fachin

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and respected attorney Gary Michael Fachin.

Born and raised south of Bakersfield, he grew up working on the family farm and cattle ranch. It's here that he learned the values of hard work, integrity, and dedication that would guide him throughout his life. He carried those principles with him as he pursued higher education. He attended the University of California, Santa Barbara obtaining a BA Degree in Physics and a membership in Phi Beta Kappa. He was offered a National Science Foundation Traineeship at the University of California at Irvine. Later he went on to receive his Juris Doctor from the University of San Francisco School of Law where he graduated at the top of his classes.

He built a distinguished career locally as an attorney. His sharp mind, strong ethics, and unwavering commitment to justice is how he was known. Beyond his professional life, he was a former President of the Alzheimer’s Association, involved in Right to Life, was a proud member and former President of Rotary Club of Bakersfield Twilight. He was a recipient of Rotary's highest honor, the Paul Harris Fellow Award, as a result of serving his community. He was especially proud of his published book, How Dusty Is My Valley, a reflection of his roots and the life he knew so well and had plans for a second book. When he wasn’t practicing law, he loved working cattle with his family as he referenced this in his book as “Ranch life was family life.”

A devout Catholic, he held a deep and abiding faith that guided his life. Sharing his beliefs and learning more about his faith brought him great joy.

He is preceded in death by his parents John and Lucille Fachin and sister Darlene Fachin. He is survived by his wife of 49 years Karen, children Cara Fachin and Ryan Fachin (Melissa), and grandfather (Pops) to Austin, Lacey, Chloe, Kylee, and Dominic, who brought him immeasurable joy. His brothers Larry and Danny Fachin.

He treasured his time with his grandchildren, especially the moments spent teaching his grandson Austin how to play chess—lessons that were as much about patience and thoughtfulness as they were about the game itself. His love for his grandchildren were his greatest sources of pride and happiness.

He will be remembered for his strength of character, his dedication to his work and community, his deep faith, and most of all, his enduring love for his family. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family he cherished.

Rosary will be recited at 9:30 a.m., followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m., on Monday March 23rd, 2026 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Greenlawn Southwest Cemetery.