Jack Ed Banister

Loving husband and father, Jack Ed Banister, 86, of Hanover, Indiana, passed away peacefully 13 Oct. 2016. He was formerly employed by RCA in Camden, New Jersey, and retired in 1989 from GE where he was division vice president of the Government Communication Systems Division.

Jack had many memberships and honors which include Eagle Scouts, Coast Guard Auxiliary, United States Power Squadrons, Spring Hill Kansas Masonic Lodge #56, South Bend Scottish Rite, Murat Shriners of Indianapolis, Distinguished Hoosier, Aircraft Pilot Owners Association, M.E.N.S.A., Christian Ardinger Chapter of Sons of American Revolution, and the Society of Indiana Pioneers.He served honorably in the U.S. Navy from 1949 to 1954. Jack was an instrument-rated pilot for 60 years and flew missions for the Coast Guard Auxiliary. He had a wide range of interests, including sailing, amateur radio and teaching boating safety and celestial navigation. He was awarded the title of Kentucky Colonel in recognition of his accomplishments and outstanding service to the nation.

He was married to Frances Mae Harnett in Oakland, California, on 13 Oct. 1950. He is survived by his wife and others, including: his daughters Frances Ann Ebert of Auburn, Maine, Beryl (Kevin) Kelley of Berlin, New Jersey, and Leslie Banister of Chesilhurst, New Jersey; his sons Paul (Debbie) Banister of Hagerstown, Maryland, Dr. Mark (Suzanne) Banister of Plymouth, New Hampshire, and John (Suzanne) Banister of Rancocas, New Jersey; his sister Linda Jo; 12 grandchildren; and 3 great-grandsons.

Funeral services were held 17 Oct. 2016 at the Bass & Gasper Funeral Home in Westport, Indiana.

Jack was a dedicated and active member of the Louisville Sail & Power Squadron and a past district commander for District 24. Even this year Jack served as the Squadron Commander’s Aid and as an at-large member of the Executive Committee.  Jack was a true gentleman, educator and friend. He will be missed by all of us who knew him and had the privilege of working with him.