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Bernard Bankes Obituary
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He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Kenney and Mike.
Surviving are his son, Bill (Julie) Bankes of Channahon; his two grandchildren, Braden and Baylee Bankes; and his two siblings, Dollie Pokarney of Pekin and Steve Bankes of Creve Coeur.
Bernard graduated with the EPCHS Class of 1959, then went to work for Caterpillar. In January of 1962, he enlisted in the Navy and proudly served through May of 1966. He returned to work at Caterpillar in June of 1966, retiring in May of 1993.
He served as a deacon for Creve Coeur Christian Church as well as at Parkway Christian Church in Pekin. He and Rose were very active at church, volunteering at the Creve Coeur Christian Church food pantry and filling food baskets for those in need during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. They also helped in the nursery and with youth classes. For the last several years, Bernard and Rose attended Washington Christian Church.
Bernard enjoyed woodworking, fishing, camping with Rose in their motorhome, and going to Florida in the winter.
A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at Washington Christian Church, with visitation from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial, with full military honors, will follow at Hillcrest Memory Gardens in Morton.
Memorial contributions may be made to Washington Christian Church Preschool, the American Heart Association, or a charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences may be left at www.GaryDeitersFH.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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444 E. Washington Street, East Peoria, IL 61611
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