Theodore Banach

1940 - 2025

Theodore A. "Ted" Banach, age 84, of Farwell, passed away on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at MyMichigan Medical Center in Clare, surrounded by his family. Born on December 16, 1940, to Theodore P. and Marcella (Trombly) Banach in Roseville, Michigan, Ted grew up with a strong work ethic and deep family values. On February 8, 1964, he married Shirley Coogan at St. Cyril of Jerusalem Catholic Church in Taylor, Michigan, beginning a partnership that endured for sixty-one years. Ted began his career in his early twenties as a machinist with Quality Tool & Engineering, where his dedication and skill ultimately led him to the role of General Manager. In 1978, he and Shirley moved their family to Central Michigan to operate Lake George Resort, a challenging period that tested their resolve and demonstrated their resilience. In 1979, Ted joined Future Mold Corporation, where he continued his craft for the next thirty years until his retirement. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Ted embraced many passions. He loved science fiction-especially Star Trek and Star Wars-and had a keen eye for photography and videography. He enjoyed deer hunting and trips to Michigan's Upper Peninsula. A loyal fan of the Detroit Lions and the Michigan Wolverines, Ted was also known for his perfect timing with puns and classic dad jokes, always ready to bring a smile to those around him. Above all, Ted's greatest joy was his family. He had a tender heart, especially for babies, and nothing warmed him more than holding the youngest members of the family. His love was strong, constant, and felt by everyone who knew him.
Ted is survived by his wife, Shirley, of Farwell; and his children: Theodore (Elvira Castro) Banach of Farwell, Matthew (Peggy) Banach of Sugar Grove, Illinois, Alexander Banach of Farwell, Katrina (Jim) Cotton of Clare, and Stephanie (Bill) Bell of Farwell. He is also remembered with love by his grandchildren: Jessica Bailey, Stacie (Mike) Livermore, Jordan (Beth) Dancer, Melissa Banach, Kate (Tim) Liles, Doug (Cali) Banach, Emily (Patrick Lowery) Banach, Ryan (Hannah) Seiter, Olivia Banach, Will Bell, Ren Cotton, Teddy Bell, and Marcella Bell; along with his ten great-grandchildren. Additional survivors include his sisters Sue Sampson of Clinton Township and Chris (Ron) Evans of St. Clair Shores, as well as many nieces and nephews. Ted was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore and Marcella Banach; his sister, Judy Bazzetta; and his brothers-in-law Frank Bazzetta and Leo Sampson.
Though he has gone home, his love remains alive in every heart he touched. A Funeral Mass in honor of Ted will take place on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. at the Our Lady of Hope Parish - St. Cecilia Site in Clare, with Monsignor Francis Koper officiating. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 19, from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at the Farwell Chapel of the Stephenson-Wyman Funeral Home. Ted's final place of rest will be St. Cecilia Catholic Cemetery in Clare. Memorial contributions in Ted's honor may be directed to the "Our Lady of Hope Parish Renovation Fund." For those unable to attend services, condolences may be shared at the funeral home website, www.stephenson-wyman.com