Kenneth Michael Banks, Sr., 70

Kenneth Michael “Mickey” Banks passed away peacefully at his home in Indianapolis, IN on Saturday January 6, 2018 after a hard-fought battle with congestive heart failure.  Ken is survived by his wife of almost 49 years (Diane (Christy) Banks), two children (K. Michael (Tricia) Banks, Jr. and Julia (Kendrick) Rencher), five grandchildren (Olivia, Ella, Carly, Alexander, and Sara Lynn), two sisters (Sherill Marske and Jean Banks), two special family friends (Diane and Jerri Horar), multiple nieces, nephews, and loving friends. He is preceded in death by his mother Doris (Brown) Banks and his father Kenneth M. Banks of Hammond IN.     

Ken was born May 12, 1947, in Hammond, Indiana.  Ken loved sports playing baseball as a kid and wrestling in high school. He graduated from Gavit High School 1965 where he enjoyed music –  playing in the band and singing in the Madrigal group. Ken earned his Bachelor’s degree in Business Admin from Indiana University 1979. He went onto a career in retail management for Melville Corp and was an auditor for Boyne USA. (where he said his real job was to test the ski slopes and golf courses!)

Ken was a Vietnam Veteran, serving 6 years in the United States Navy.  During his service, he was a Mineman and served on several aircraft carriers: The Coral Sea, The Ranger, The Oriskiny, and the Shangri La.  In retirement, Ken enjoyed being the Service Officer for the American Legion Post 10 in Manistee, MI.

Whether it was serving as a Cub Scout Pack master with his son or taking his daughter to Daddy Date night, Ken enjoyed his kids. He also enjoyed traveling on family vacations and to countries around the globe.  He continued to enjoy sports as an adult playing tennis, bowling, golf, and skiing. The entire Banks family loved the Cubbies and we know he is up there celebrating their 2016 World Series win with his mom Doris.

Ken’s family will hold two memorial celebrations of his of life.  The first service will be held at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church [Robertson Chapel in Indianapolis, IN on Saturday, February 3, 2018, at 2 PM.  The second service will be at the First Congregational Church of Onekama in Onekama, MI on Saturday, June 9, 2018, at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to one of two organizations near and dear to Ken’s heart. The first is the American Legion Post 10 in Manistee, MI. Ken thoroughly enjoyed the brotherhood and friendships he made at the Legion.  The second being the IU Health Hospice program in Indianapolis, IN.  Ken’s family is eternally grateful for the care and support provided by his hospice nurses, volunteers, and one very special home health aid, Noka.

Ken was known by many for his quick wit, a twinkle in his eye, incredible golf game, wicked tennis serve, determination, sweet tooth, unbeatable poker face, and undying love for his family.  More than anything, Ken was known to all as a ”really nice guy” who knew the value of living simply and loving unconditionally.  He will be dearly missed.

Arrangements entrusted to Indiana Funeral Care.