Joseph Francis Bankovich

Joseph Francis Bankovich, 92 OCEANSIDE -- Joseph Francis Bankovich passed away Wednesday, November 17, 2010 in Oceanside. He was born June 14, 1920 to Steve and Frances (Neduchal) Bankovich in McMechen, W. Virginia and has lived in Oceanside since 1964. Mr. Bankovich served as a Machinist's Mate 2nd Class in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He later became a Certified Professional Mechanical Engineer and went to work for Southern California Edison. With Edison, he was one of nine CEOs sent to the East Coast to be especially trained to open and operate the Edison San Onofre Nuclear Generating Plant. He received the National Safety Award two years in a row and was a member of the California Board for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors. Always athletic, Mr. Bankovich was a former Golden Gloves Boxer and an avid swimmer. He also loved boating on the boat that he handcrafted over a 17-year period. Mr. Bankovich is survived by his wife of 64 years, Bonnie Bankovich; and sons, Gregory and Stephen Bankovich. Visitation will be Monday, November 22, 2010 at 9 a.m., followed by a funeral Mass at 10 a.m. at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church, 609 Pier View Way, Oceanside, California 92054. Interment with military honors will be held at Riverside National Cemetery at a later date. Sign the Guest Book online obits.nctimes.com