Glenn Loren Banks, born Aug. 24, 1926, in Elkhart, Ind., passed away peacefully March 29 in Sarasota, Fla.
He was preceded in death by his loving and devoted wife of 64 years, Joan Elizabeth Banks. Surviving are his sister, Patricia Banks Miller, four children, and seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.
This obituary appeared in the South Bend Tribune.
After graduating from Elkhart High School, Banks joined the U.S. Navy during World War II. He graduated from Indiana University School of Business, and then moved to Elkhart, entered the wholesale lumber business and in 1961, founded Banks Lumber Co., a supplier to the RV market, where he served as president and CEO until retirement.
While in Elkhart he was chairman of the Elkhart United Way, a founding board member of ADEC, director of the Elkhart General Hospital, director of the Canadian Lumber Association, president of the North American Wholesale Lumber Association, and Trustee of the Indiana University Foundation. Among numerous honors he received Entrepreneur of the Year from the IU Business School and also from IU, the Distinguished Alumni Service Award.
He was laid to rest April 2 at the Sarasota National Cemetery with full Naval honors.
A special thanks to Chris Hall and her staff for many years of beautiful, loving care.
Long known for his positive outlook on life and his sense of humor, he was a dedicated husband, father, and friend who earned the respect of all who knew him. A fine man who loved family, fly fishing, golf, IU sports and above all, helping others.
