Former Mayor George Lanxon remembered as architect of Fairview Heights’ growth
George A. Lanxon, a foundational figure in the establishment and growth of Fairview Heights, died Sunday, Feb. 8, at age 93.
Known for his instrumental role in shaping the city and its police department, Lanxon served as Fairview Heights’ second mayor from 1979 to 1995, overseeing a period of significant community development.
Mayor Mark Kupsky called Lanxon’s passing “a sad moment” for the city, noting the deep impact Lanxon had on Fairview Heights. He said the former mayor had a “medical event” in December and was in a long-term care facility when he died.
Kupsky met Lanxon as a teenager and later served under him as an alderman. He described Lanxon as “a great guy” who was “instrumental during a key growth period of our city.” He also recalled Lanxon’s signature habit of wearing white shoes from Easter through Labor Day.
Lanxon’s leadership extended beyond his mayoral term. He was an original member and later chairman of the city’s Board of Fire and Police Commissioners.
Fairview Heights Police Chief Steve Johnson said Lanxon had “such intuition about hiring the right officers” and was great at reading people. He was “sharp” and would keep candidates on their toes with his questions.
“He really is that guy everyone wished they knew,” Johnson said.
Compassionate leader and role model
Former Alderman Scott Rich remembered Lanxon as a compassionate leader with high standards, particularly for the police department.
Rich credited Lanxon for his role in establishing Fairview Heights as a home rule city, which allowed the city to then eliminate the municipal property tax.
“His fingerprints are all over the city,” said Rich, adding that he viewed Lanxon as a role model and mentor.
Rich said that after losing his own dad, Lanxon was like a second father and a role model.
There was “never a cross word to anyone” from him, Rich said. The city “lost a tremendous man, a great leader and human being.”
Civic involvement
Outside city government, Lanxon owned George A. Lanxon Piling Sales Inc., which supplied steel piling for bridge construction across the metro-east and into St. Louis. He remained active in this business with his wife, Barbara “Bobbie” Lanxon, until recent years.
Lanxon was active in civic and fraternal organizations such as the Rotary Club and the Salvation Army, according to friends.
“He’ll be sorely missed by everyone,” said Alderwoman Pat Baeske, who worked with Lanxon in the Rotary Club of Fairview Heights.. “He was a sweet, sweet, gentle man … always concerned about everyone else. I can’t say enough good things about George. I dearly love him.”
In addition to being his barber for 50 years, Larry Mueller was also a longtime friend and neighbor. He and Lanxon were involved together with Rotary and the Salvation Army Board of Directors.
Lanxon was “a true friend and an amazing human being,” Mueller said. “He was a faithful, giving man … such a jewel.”
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Ongoing service
In 2023, the Fairview Heights Police Department recognized Lanxon for his 50-plus years of service, including his role in bringing the 9-1-1 emergency system and Backstoppers to St. Clair County.
The city established the George A. Lanxon Public Service Award, given annually to honor outstanding contributions to public safety by elected officials. Previous recipients include Kupsky, former Belleville Mayor Patty Gregory, and former Swansea Mayor Michael Leopold.
Even in retirement, Lanxon kept an eye on Fairview Heights, with a particular concern for public works and park maintenance.
“If he saw overgrown weeds on a property, he called it in to public works to deal with it,” Johnson said.
Kupsky’s last visit with Lanxon occurred after the heavy snowfall in January.
“Mayor,” he says he whispered to him, “I want you to know, all the streets are clear.”
Lanxon nodded his approval, Kupsky said.
Visitation and Funeral
Lanxon was born in Belleville to George Lanxon and the former Hazel Rujawitz on July 23, 1932.
He is survived by his wife, Bobbie; children, Michael (Judith) Lanxon, Julie Gaskin and Kevin Lanxon; seven grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be Monday, Feb. 16, from 4–8 p.m. at Kassly Mortuary in Fairview Heights, and Tuesday, Feb. 17, from 10–11 a.m. at Edgemont Bible Church. A funeral will follow at the church at 11 a.m., with burial afterward at Lake View Memorial Gardens.
Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice. The city of Fairview Heights will fly flags at half-staff in his honor.
