John L. Banionis

John L. Banionis, 96, formerly of Worcester and Auburn, died Monday Oct. 6, 2008 in Millbury Health Care Center, 312 Millbury Ave, Millbury. His wife of 64 years, Beatrice M. (Mason) Banionis died in 2004.

He leaves a daughter-in-law, Judith A. Banionis of Brunswick, ME; two grandchildren, Jill Pettingill and her husband, Matthew, Jamie Gibbons and her husband, Jason; four great-grandchildren, Kelsey and Kaleb Barrett and Olivia and Sierra Gibbons; and nephews and nieces. His son, John A. Banionis died in 2005. He was also predeceased by a brother, Peter Banionis and a sister, Frances Anton. He was born in Worcester, a son of Peter and Mary (Vazanalis) Banionis. He lived in North Grafton for 7 years and many years in Worcester before residing in Auburn and then Millbury.

Mr. Banionis was a teacher and machine operator instructor 31 years at Worcester Boys Trade High School before retiring in 1977. He also taught in Waltham for 2 years. He was a member of St. Casimir Church and a former member of the church choir. John was an accomplished bowler and bowled in many leagues. While he was working he enjoyed the morning cribbage games held before school. He was a wonderful and loving grandfather who created many memories with the third floor treasure chest and the big swing in the yard.

The funeral will be held on Thursday October 9 from DIRSA-MORIN FUNERAL HOME, 298 Grafton St, with a Mass at 10:30 a.m in St. Joseph Church, 759 Main St, Leicester. Entombment will be in Notre Dame Cemetery Mausolem. A calling hour will be held Thursday Oct. 9 from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m in the funeral home. Please omit flowers.

www.worcesterfuneral.com