Obituary of Robert Banek

Robert Joseph Banek Jr. November 3, 1959 - September 13, 2010 Robert Joseph Banek was born in Monroe, Michigan on November 3, 1959. He was the son of Robert J. Banek Sr. and the late Carol (Lazette) Banek. Robert grew up in Monroe and attended Christiancy Elementary School. He attended Monroe High School and graduated with the Class of 1977. Robert married the former Betty Gean Travis in Monroe, Michigan on June 19, 1996. From this union came the birth of two children: Christopher and Amy. Robert worked as a laborer for most of his life. He spent more than thirteen years employed by Flat Rock Metal. Robert enjoyed fishing, camping, and playing sports with his children. He loved to play cards and had participated in several bowling leagues at the Monroe Sports Center throughout the years. Several years ago Christopher developed cancer. Today Christopher is a cancer survivor. Having walked with his son on such a difficult journey Robert became extremely passionate about cancer walks and cancer fundraisers for research. Robert enjoyed volunteering as much as possible. He was well-known for his big heart, and his willingness to give to others. Robert was a past member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Monroe. He had also attended AA. Robert Joseph Banek Jr., age 50 of Monroe passed away at 2:05pm, Monday, September 13, 2010 at St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center where he had been for ten days. In addition to his mother on December 31, 1993 his passing was preceded by his sister: Susan Banek; a stillborn sister; and his father-in-law: Wayne Shepherd in 1984. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife: Betty Gean Banek of Monroe; a son: Christopher Banek of Monroe; a daughter: Amy Banek of Monroe; his father: Robert Banek Sr. of Benito Springs, Florida; two sisters: Cheryl (Richard) Spicer of Monroe and Julie (Jimmy) Townsend of Newport; and his mother-in-law: Claudia Shepherd of Monroe. Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 5:00pm on Thursday, September 16, 2010 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of His Life will be held at 5:00pm with his cousin: Jeff Eagle and family and friends sharing memories. Memorial donations for those who desire are suggested to the Banek Family.