Bellville Times

Phillip (Phil) Sydney Banner passed on peacefully at his home in Bellville on Jan. 24, 2004. He was 96.

He led a full and happy life. He was a loving and caring person, always willing to help someone. A wonderful husband, father and friend. Always thinking in a positive way. Accomplished and achieved many feats in his life and was gifted with many talents.

He enjoyed traveling around the United States and Canada in his traveling days.

He was born on June 9, 1907 at his country home in Kokomo, Ind. to his mom Mary Banner and his pop Sidney Banner, formerly from England.

As a child he helped his pop raise thousands of chickens. He delivered
newspapers on his pony. He built his own race car when he was a teen-ager. Learning many trades in his life and completing all with perfection. Loved music, learned to play the drums, piano and marimba. Played in musical bands.

Then moved on to Hammond, Ind. where he started his career in 1928 as a signalman on the Indiana harbor Belt Railroad. He was a faithful and dedicated employee for 45 years. He had a big part in changing signal systems from mechanical to electronic operation.

During that time he married Mary Puchek. Together they built their own home in Dyer, Ind. and raised their daughter Joanne Banner (Sorich). Retired in 1973 at the age of 66.

On Sept. 23, 1985 his wife Mary passed on. In 1997 with his daughter and son-in-law Peter Sorich, they moved to Bellville, enjoyed the peaceful country life until his passing.

He was cremated on Jan. 27, 2004. His remains will remain with family. We will cherish the memories he left us.

Arrangements under the direction of Knesek Family Funeral Chapels in Bellville.

Posted by Joy Neely