Trending
Jan. 12, 1927 – Dec. 12, 2023
Lillian Mae Banas, 96, entered God's Kingdom on Dec. 12, 2023.
She was born in Saginaw on Jan. 12, 1927. She married Raymond Banas before moving to Alpena to raise their family and play a very active part in the community. She was a proud mother, loved entertaining and was a tireless community volunteer for many organizations, including The Girl's Club, Michigan's United Way, and the Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan board. She was a longtime member of the First Congregational United Church of Christ, serving with friends at The Friendship Room well into her 90's. She exemplified lifelong learning by pursuing a master's in business in her 60's as well as teaching real estate for many years. She loved selling private homes and commercial real estate as a Broker-owner of Real Estate One then Home Realty in Alpena. She served as the matriarch of the Banas family, challenging everyone to be the best version of themselves. In late life she enjoyed playing card games, spending time with family, celebrating life and trips to the casino where she could outlast the house. Her key to longevity was exercise and eating a banana daily "to avoid fuzzy thinking."
Her husband Raymond and her son James preceded her in death.
She is survived by her sons Jon (Marcia), Tom (Nadia), Steve (Lisa) as well as eight beautiful grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. She will be missed by all.
The family will be planning a private celebration of life at a later date. Cremation arrangements have been handled by the Bannan Funeral Home.
Please help to honor her life by serving others in the community. Donations in her honor may be sent to The Friendship Room, PO Box 736 Alpena, Michigan 49707.