Glenn Loren Banks

1926 - 2018

Glenn Loren Banks

Aug. 24, 1926 - Mar. 29, 2018

ELKHART - Glenn Loren Banks, born August 24, 1926 in Elkhart, IN passed away peacefully March 29, 2018 in Sarasota, FL.

He was preceded in death by his loving and devoted wife of 64 years, Joan Elizabeth Banks. Surviving are his sister, Patricia Banks Miller; his four children, William, John, Stephen, and Marcia Banks along with their families, including seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

After graduating from Elkhart High School, Glenn joined the U.S. Navy during World War II. He graduated from Indiana University School of Business, was President of the Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity, and served on the Student Foundation Steering Committee. Upon graduation he moved to Elkhart, entered the wholesale lumber business and in 1961, founded Banks Lumber Company 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, 2018 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.

(Donations may be made to Indiana University Foundation/Steering Committee Scholarship Fund at PO Box 500, Bloomington, IN 47402; or Elkhart County United Way, PO Box 3048, Elkhart, IN 46515.)