William Melvin Banes

William Melvin Banes

North English

William Melvin Banes was born July 20, 1924, near North English, Iowa, the son of Vernon Jackson and Lulu (Thomas) Banes. He grew up in the North English and White Pigeon area and attended Webster High School. On Dec. 13, 1942, Bill was united in marriage to Louise Faye Van Fleet in South English. They farmed in the White Pigeon community, before moving into North English in 1978. Bill was a member of the North English United Methodist Church. He enjoyed farming, dancing, traveling and taking bus trips with Louise, playing darts, cards and games. Bill died on Sunday, Dec. 11, 2022, at the Rose Haven Nursing Home in Marengo, at the age of 98 years.

He is survived by his children, Karen (Harley) Westfall of Riverside, Ronald (Barbara) Banes of North English, Jeffrey (Lori) Banes of Williamsburg and Kevin (Shari) Banes of North English; 12 grandchildren, Tracy (Brad) Folkedahl, Cindy (Joe) Kruse, Steven (Annie) Banes, Brad (Kris) Westfall, Deb (Eric) Stewart, Rod (Phyllis) Westfall, Jess (Greg) O’Rourke, Amanda (Travis) Clubb, Darin Banes, Beth Banes, Alex (Paige) Banes and Cole Banes; 26 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren; and a brother, John (Francine) Banes of Fairfax.

He was preceded by his parents and his wife.

A private family service will be held, at a later date. Burial will be in the North English Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the North English Fire Department. Powell Funeral Home in North English is caring for Bill and his family. Messages and tributes may be left at www.powellfuneralhomes.com.