John Henry "Harry" Banks died March 17,2009, at St. John's Lutheran Ministries, following a 14 year battle with Parkinson's disease. Harry was born in Glenrock, Wyoming, November 28, 1920, to Emma and John Banks. The family joined his grandparents in homesteading on the Comanche Flats north of Billings, living and attending school in Belmont. Harry graduated from Belmont School in 1938 and then attended University of Montana, obtaining a degree in Business and a minor in Psychology in 1942 so that he would "never have to milk another cow."

Harry enlisted in the Army in 1942 and ultimately was stationed in Okinawa as personal clerk to General Stilwell of the 10th Army. He was honorably discharged in 1946 and returned to Montana to go into business in Billings with his brother-in-law, Bill Ziegler, as accountant for the Vaughn Ragsdale Company. He was active in the Exchange Club and in the downtown planning commission. In the late 1970's, when V&R closed, retirement just didn't suit Harry so he went on to manage the census for a tri-state area.

In 1947, Harry and June Bilden were married and shared an active life together for over 50 years. They were active members of First English Lutheran Church and had many common interests, most particularly, their family and friends, fishing, camping, and gardening. Upon retirement (finally!) they moved to Oregon, where they enjoyed crabbing, visiting the gardens and orchards, and traveling. There, Harry was able to pursue his interest in golf, even garnering a hole-in-one.

Harry, a true gentleman, passed on to his children strong ethics, faith, kindness, and intellectual curiosity. He is survived by his son Bill (Lynne) Banks of Ocean Shores, W A; daughter, Bonnie Banks-Zediker (Steve) of Billings; grandson Joshua Zediker; as well as dear nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; five siblings; his wife June; and step-son Jack Malloy. Harry's family thanks all the care givers at St. John's for their TLC over the past 6 years.

Inurnment will take place at 11 :30 A.M., Saturday, March 21, at the Belmont Cemetery. A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 P.M., Saturday, at First English Lutheran Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First English Lutheran Church, Grace United Methodist Church, or to Parkinson's disease research.