Obituary of George W. Banke

George William Banke, Sr. George William Banke, Sr., 92, of Vestal, NY passed away Wednesday, December 18, 2013 at James G. Johnston Nursing Home, Johnson City, NY. Born on May 26, 1921 in Matawan, NJ, he was the son of the late George and Mary (Cremin) Banke. He was predeceased by his wife of 59 years, Marilyn (Leyh) Banke and his sister Mary Loscoe. He is survived by his six children: Barbara (Keven) Smith of Endwell, NY, George William (Renata) Banke, Jr. of Essex Junction, VT, Brian Banke of New York, NY, Dr. Richard (Myra) Banke of League City, TX, Christine Ann Banke (Melinda Carney) of Skanaeateles, NY and Douglas (LeAnne) Banke of Chittenango, NY; grandchildren, Thomas (Christa) Smith, David (Rachel) Smith, Dr. Kelly Ann Smith (Andrew Sturckler), Meghan Banke, Jesse (Chrystal) Howe, Jr., and Nicole Howe; great grandchildren Jacob, Olivia, Matthew, Margaret, Adelaide, Cecilia, Marissa, Audriona, and Colton; also several nieces and nephews. George will be remembered for his loving devotion to his family. George was a member of Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church for over 50 years. During that time he volunteered at the funeral lunches. He retired from IBM Endicott as a Staff Engineer after more than 25 years of service. George was a six year United States Navy veteran of WW II, serving as a Chief Petty Officer, primarily on the USS Haddo submarine in the Pacific campaign. George missed his mornings at the Blue Dolphin with the ROMEO club. The family would like to thank the staff of the James G. Johnston Nursing Home for their care and support. The family would also like to thank the staff at 3 Seton and 3 Ross at Lourdes Hospital. Visiting hours will be Monday, December 23 from 9:30 - 10:30 AM at Coleman & Daniels Funeral Home, 765 Main St., Vestal, NY. A Funeral Mass will be offered on Monday, December 23, 11:00 AM at the newly dedicated Our Lady of Sorrows Church, 801 Main St., Vestal, NY. Interment will be at Calvary-St. Patrick's Cemetery, Johnson City, NY. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations may be made to Mom's House, 770 Harry L Drive, Johnson City, NY 13790 or CHOW (Community Hunger Outreach Warehouse), 3 Otseningo St., Binghamton, NY 13903