Lyle Banning

Lyle Grant Banning

October 1, 1921 - October 31, 2014

Lyle Grant Banning, 93, passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 31, 2014 with his wife at his side. Lyle was born on October 1, 1921 in Wauneta, Kansas to Everett and Floy Banning. He was the 4th of their 8 children. Enlisting in June of 1941, Lyle proudly served in the US Army for over 4 years. Lyle's overseas unit was the 965th Field Artillery Battalion, participating in the Normandy invasion and the battle of the Rhineland. Lyle was awarded the Purple Heart, theater ribbon and 4 bronze battle stars. Lyle married Inez Rose Starr on January 16, 1944 while on leave in Kansas. He returned home from war the following year after being seriously injured in battle in Europe.

Lyle and Inez settled in Oregon, living in Salem before moving to their much-loved farm in Gervais where they raised their family. Lyle was an electrician and worked for Martin Bros. Sign Company for his entire career. Lyle enjoyed the farm, his horses, the family garden and his prized tomatoes. Lyle loved spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren, especially enjoying the family gatherings with homemade ice cream. Lyle was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Gervais and the Knights of Columbus, and in more recent years, St. Luke's Catholic Church.

Lyle is survived by his wife of 70 years, Inez; children, Sandra (Bill) Journey, Susan Jungwirth, Tim (Donna) Craig (Becky), Mark (Trish), Cindy Koenig, brother Melvin, and many beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at St. Luke's Catholic Church in Woodburn on Friday, November 7th at 3PM, reception following at the church hall.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Wounded Warrior Project.