Bernell Chester Banks of Spanish Fork, UT passed away February 6th, 2023, at the age of 86. Bernell was born February 20th, 1936, to Arthur and Tora Duke Banks.
He grew up in Salem, he attended Salem elementary, Spanish fork high school, and trade tech school in welding. His nickname growing up was “Buff” for Buffalo Bill.
Bernell served in the Army 33rd infantry. He completed basic training in California and continued training near the Panama Canal in the jungle during the Korean War.
Bernell married the love of his life, Ann Marie Huff on March 29th, 1958, in Spanish Fork and they were later sealed in the Manti Temple. Together they raised their children; Steve, Bruce, Marianne, Patricia, Jana and their granddaughter Megan.
Bernell was a hardworking man, who was committed to his family. Bernell helped build, run, and cook at the Oak Crest Inn, Little Acorn and Jack Rabbit gas station located in the mouth of Spanish Fork canyon for 30 years.
Bernell and Ann were selected as Grand Marshall’s for the 2002 Spanish Fork Fiesta Days.
In his spare time, he enjoyed going for drives, supporting the Utah Jazz, watching boxing, bowling, John Wayne movies, baking bread and especially cheering on his grandkids in their sporting events. Prior to Ann’s passing, they loved to travel together. Their travels were some of his fondest memories.
Bernell was a faithful member of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and had a testimony of the Savior. He was “one of the good ones” he was humble, kind, considerate, and never complained. He was a devoted husband, father, son, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.
He is survived by his children, Steve (Donna) Banks, Patricia (Jon D) Christensen, Megan (Travis Stotts) 11 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Alene (Marvin) Gerber. He is preceded in death by his wife Ann & children; Bruce, Mariann, Jana, grandson Michael Banks and siblings Keith, Don and Merle.
There will be a visitation, where family and friends may gather from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Monday evening, February 20, 2023, at Walker Funeral Home, 187 South Main Street, Spanish Fork, Utah 84660. There will also be a visitation Tuesday morning, February 21, 2023, at the Salem Stake Center, 696 South 300 West, Salem, Utah from 9:45 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. prior to the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be at Spanish Fork City Cemetery, 420 South 400 East, Spanish Fork, Utah 84660.
3 Condolences for Bernell C. Banks
Condolences(3)
Vivian Jacobsen says
February 9, 2023 at 6:43 pmTrisha, your dad will be missed by all of us at Legacy. I’ll miss the singing, the political opinions we shared and laughed about, his kindness. Never complained. Always glad to see us and didn’t care if I was sweaty from working, still always a hug and “love you” as we left his room. Much love to you, my dear friend.
Shirley VanLeuven says
February 14, 2023 at 11:42 pmTrisha, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your father. I have many memories of your mother and dad and the Oak Crest inn. Your dad was a talented baker and I always admired his work ethic and appreciated his kindness to me. I hope you are blessed with many wonderful memories in the years to come.
Sincerely, Shirley VanLeuven
Rich "Irch" Barney says
February 19, 2023 at 7:47 amThe hardest thing about our mortal journey is the loss of a dear loved one, even though it’s an important and eternal part of our individual progress.
In the Spirit World Bernell is connecting with his dear wife and best friend, Ann, and with dear loved ones and dear friends; and meeting for the first time his kindred ancestors.
Bernell was my boss — twice. He and Ann were very meticulous about their businesses in making sure everything went well with quality and kindness. They were very fair with those that worked for them and I was and still am very close with them and their family. I enjoyed making both Bernell and Ann laugh.
I’m very sorry for your loss and pray for your comfort and strength, especially during this time of grievance and sensitive reflection.
With love and prayers,
Rich “Irch” Barney