Robert I Banks

Robert I. Banks, 90, of Hillman, Michigan passed away on Saturday, October 24, 2020 in Enon, Ohio, surrounded by his family. He was born November 20, 1929 in Pontiac, Michigan to the late Isma C. and Irene H. Banks. Robert was awarded the degree of Bachelor of Arts With High Honors from the University of Maryland in 1971. He earned his degree by going to school at night, all the while working and raising six children. As amazing as this was, he couldn’t have done it without Mom, who felt she earned the degree as well. Throughout his life, he enjoyed many hobbies and interests, including horseshoes, bowling, motorcycles, handball, hunting, reading, sudoku puzzles and always loved the old westerns on television. He was a lifelong fan of University of Michigan athletics and loved watching their games, especially the winningest football program in the NCAA! This has been verified by Robert C. Banks. Above all, he enjoyed spending time at his farm in northern Michigan. Robert retired from the United States Air Force (USAF) in 1973 and from USAF Civil Service in 1990, having served his country for over 41 years. SMSgt Banks was an Air Force Korean War Veteran. He was a radio operator on the B-29, logging over 600 hours’ flying time. He received numerous awards during his career, including the The United States Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, The Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Medal, Korean Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, Army Occupation Medal (Japan), and Air Crew Member Badge, among others. He was a charter member of the VFW Post in Oscoda, Michigan since 1961; George Rogers Clark VFW Post 8437; the Knights of Columbus; and a member of St. Paul Catholic Church. Robert is survived by four daughters and a son; Jade M. Banks of Tilghman, Maryland; Jule A. (Kernie) Moore of Rapid City, Michigan; Joan I. (George) Falldine of Warner Robins, Georgia; Jolyn B. (Michael) Verbillion of Springfield, Ohio; Robert C. (Donna) Banks of Jacksonville, Florida; a sister, Joanne Miracle; and close family friend, Paula Rich. He was grandfather to Jessica, Christian, Meagan, David, Grace and Claire; and great-grandfather to Christian, Cooper, Juliet, Piper, Oliver, Scarlet and Calvin; and Favorite Uncle to numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; the love of his life, his wife of 54 years, Julia Wald Banks; a daughter, Jana R. Banks; four siblings; Betty Millard, Virginia Wilder, Thomas Banks, and Walter Banks. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, October 30 at 11:00 AM at St. Paul Catholic Church, Yellow Springs, Ohio with Fr. Bill Kramer officiating. Military honors will be performed by USAF Honor Guard following the service in Enon Cemetery. A visitation will be held at 10:00 AM, prior to the Mass in the church. Robert’s family requests donations be made in his name, to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675 or www.woundedwarriorproject.org Adkins Funeral Home, Enon is assisting Robert’s family with his final wishes. www.adkinsfunerals.com

Robert I Banks

November 20, 1929 - October 24, 2020