Mr. Leonard R. Banwell's Obituary
Mr. Leonard R. Banwell, 91, passed away Wednesday evening, May 7, 2014, at his home. Born June 11, 1922 in Petoskey, MI to Alfred and Lottie (Bonter) Banwell, he was a Muskegon resident for many years. He was a US Army Air Corps veteran of World War II, serving three years in the China-Burma-India Theatre, and then entered Muskegon Community College and served his apprenticeship to become a pattern maker. He worked at that trade for 30 years before retiring from Seaway Pattern. Leonard married the former Mary Mae Hyatt 54 years ago, and she survives him along with a son, Robert (Ann) Banwell, a sister, Mary Helen (Roger) Hill; several special nieces and nephews;a special friend, Vince Dostert;and his caregiver, Maude Pierson. His parents and a brother, Ronald Banwell, preceded him in death. Leonard was a member of the American Legion, Muskegon Elks, and the Moose Lodge. He loved to snowmobile and liked to travel, spending 25 winters in Florida; and do wood carving; and had enjoyed hunting, golf, and boating. A MEMORIAL SERVICE will be held for Mr. Banwell at 4:00 P.M. Tuesday, May 13, 2014 at The Lee Chapel, 6291 S. Harvey Street, Norton Shores, MI 49444, phone 231-798-1100 with Rev. Fr. Phillip Salmonowicz officiating. VISITATION will be one hour prior to the service. MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS to Harbor Hospice would be appreciated.
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