Stanley Clair Fail Sr. June 11, 1936 - February 28, 2025

Stanley Clair Fail Sr.
June 11, 1936 – February 28, 2025

Bigger than life and a man who lived a big life—Stanley Clair Fail Sr. was truly one in a million. On February 28, 2025, at the age of 88, he reunited with his beloved wife, Beverly, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and adventure.
Stanley was born on June 11, 1936, in Yuma, Colorado, to Forest and Lela Fail. As a child, he was a spirited rascal, full of energy and curiosity. In 1948, his family moved to Paramount, California, where he later graduated from Paramount High School before continuing his education at Compton Junior College, playing football at both institutions, while simultaneously losing his front teeth.
On October 15, 1955, Stanley married the love of his life, Beverly Sue Flowers. They shared 65 wonderful years together until her passing in May 2020. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Stanley took great pride in his family and never missed an opportunity to celebrate their achievements.
A man of deep faith, Stanley was an active member of the Evangelical Free Church in Turlock, California for many years, where his love for Jesus Christ guided him throughout his life. He also served as a board member of Turlock Christian School, in its early years.
Stanley lived with intensity and passion, excelling in everything he pursued. He trained as an Olympic speed skater, competing in the 1964 Innsbruck Winter Games. His dedication to the sport continued as he coached the DeMorra Speed Skating Club to five National Championship titles. Beyond the ice, he competed in cycling at the Velodrome and, to his wife’s dismay, raced motorcycles at Ascot Park in Glendora.
In 1969, he moved to the Central Valley of California, where he learned the dairy business before following in his parent’s footsteps and opening Fail’s Donut Factory (1980-1989). His warm personality and love of people made him a natural businessman. He later became an Almond Industry representative, working from 1990 until his retirement in 2017.
A lifelong competitor, Stan was an avid golfer and served two terms as President of the Turlock Golf and Country Club. He also raised and showed English Trumpeter pigeons, forming cherished friendships within the community. In his later years, he became a fierce Gin Rummy player, challenging any family member who dared to compete.
Known for his booming voice, determination, and zest for life, Stan lived by mottos like, “Nobody remembers second place,” and “Nobody has more fun than me.” His friendships were treasured, especially his lifelong best friend, Lowell Goltra, whom he affectionately called his “brother from another mother.”
Stanley was preceded in death by his parents, Forest and Lela Fail, his sister Shirley Alger of Idaho, and his dear wife, Beverly.
He is survived by his three children: Stanley (Debbie) Fail Jr. of La Grange, Kimberly Jessup of Bakersfield, and Cindy (Scott) Tyson of Turlock. His legacy continues through his 10 grandchildren—Max (Cameron) Tyson, Luke (Holly) Tyson, Wil Tyson, Lauren (Terry) Jessup Brown, Lindsey (Travis) Jessup, Justin (Sarah) Fail, Tyler (Marissa) Fail, Beth (Luke) Gautereaux Anderson, Lynsie Guillen, and Natalie Gautereaux—as well as his seven great-grandchildren, with one more on the way.
Stanley Fail Sr. lived boldly, loved deeply, and left a lasting mark on all who knew him. His spirit, laughter, and unwavering faith will be cherished forever.
A Celebration of Life Open House will be held for both Stanley and Beverly Fail on Sunday, May 4, at the Turlock Golf and Country Club from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. Family and friends are invited to share memories from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m., followed by a light buffet.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Turlock Pregnancy Center, 134 Regis St, Turlock, CA 95382 or Jessica’s House, 1225 W. Christofferson, Turlock, CA 95382