Merle Richard "Mitch" Banta 1942 - 2016

RICKMAN, BANTA, GRAY

Posted By: Connie Swearingen- Volunteer (email)
Date: 4/20/2016 at 10:32:06

Sioux City Journal
10 March 2016

SIOUX CITY | Merle Richard "Mitch" Banta, 73, of Sioux City passed away Monday, March 7, 2016, at the VA Regional Medical Center in Sioux Falls, S.D.

A celebration of life service for his family and friends will be held at a later date in Sioux City. Services and burial will be held at a later date in Diamond Head Memorial Park Cemetery in Honolulu, Hawaii. Arrangements are under the direction of Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel.

Merle was born on Sept. 24, 1942, in Oto, Iowa, to George W. and Bertha L. (Rickman) Banta. He graduated from Anthon-Oto High School in 1962. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy after graduation. He served from 1962 and was honorably discharged in 1967.

On March 15, 1965, he married Darlene Gray in Honolulu. To this union one son, Bryan "Rick" Banta was born.

Merle is survived by his wife of 50 years, Darlene Banta of Sioux City; his beloved mother-in-law, Violet Lee; two sisters, Virginia (Randy) Pike of Decatur, Ark., and Ona (Donald) Finzen of Sioux City; and many nieces and nephews.

Merle was preceded in death by his son, Bryan "Rick" Banta in May 1996; his parents; grandparents; three brothers; and two sisters.