Donald Tunis Banks

Banks, Donald Tunis

August 2, 1934 – January 17, 2021

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our beloved husband, father, grand-father, uncle, nephew, and dear friend in his 87th year.

He passed away at home, with wife Pat and daughter Donna at his bedside.

Much loved husband for 64 years of Patricia (Thorne), loving father to daughter Donna Ellis and grandfather to Jessica Ellis.  Sisters Verla Nicholson, Jean Stevens and Wendy Manning (England).  Pre-deceased by parents Kenneth and Vera Banks (Campbell), brothers Claude Banks, Dale Banks, and sister Alfreda Russell.  As well as sons Donald Gerald Banks and Dwayne Kenneth Banks.  Don was a soldier with Canadian Army from March 11, 1953 till his "Honorable release" April 11, 1956.  Originally as a "Seaforth Highlander" and then changed over to the Black Watch RHR of Canada on his way to Korea.  His theatres of service were CANADA and KOREA.  Decorations included a UN Medal, Service Medal and Canadian Volunteer Service Medal for Korea. He was an active member with the Legion, belonging to branches # 623(Bath), #9 and #560 (Kingston).  Don spent most of his work-life driving 18 wheels.  Employed by Direct Winters/Motorways and Kingsway Transport.  Unfortunately, a workplace injury forced him into retirement at age 55.  Don was deeply passionate about workplace safety and was a Teamsters union steward for Local 91.  Don and Pat were married on December 8th, 1956 and eventually resided in Millhaven from 1959-1979.  His final home being in Elginburg from 1979 till his death.  You could frequently find Don out working in his garage, doing auto repairs for friends and family.  He loved doing his own property maintenance from cutting grass to snow removal.  He definitely had "pride of ownership" in his home. Later years found Don plagued with medical issues, ultimately becoming a double amputee.  This never slowed him down, where there was a will there was a way.  Don was determined to die at home.  He made us promise that he would spend his final days in Elginburg, the place he lovingly called home for the last 42 years.  Don is resting peacefully at Wilmer cemetery; burial was Friday January 22nd during a private family service.  Thank you to pallbearers Brian Banks, Steve Banks, Gary Banks, Mark Schonauer, Gary Smith, and James Roney. We would also like to thank Dr. Natalie Kondor, community palliative care physician for all her home visits and devotion. Thank you so much to the staff of CBI especially "Pat", you are truly a special angel and obviously cared about our beloved Don. For those who wish; memorial donation can be made to The War Amps, in lieu of flowers.  A celebration of life will be held at a later date, post COVID restrictions.

IN THE CARE OF

TROUSDALE FUNERAL HOME

BOX 264, 4374 MILL ST.

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