Robert S. Banks, 78, died on April 19.
He was born in Palo Alto, Calif., and grew up in Pasadena and Sacramento. He earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering at the University of California-Berkeley, followed by a doctorate in epidemiology from the University of Minnesota.
After employment in computer development and application for several large companies, Bob became an environmental consultant, founding and running a business (Robert S. Banks Associates) for 15 years.
Active in the Boy Scouts since his youth, Bob continued to work as a volunteer for the Northern Star Council as an adult. He was a strong influence on many young lives and was recognized with numerous awards. One outstanding memory was his cross-country train trip to the 1950 Boy Scout Jamboree in Valley Forge, Pa., with his brother Phil.
Bob served in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and later as a Reservist. This experience led to his purchase and restoration of a Korean War military jeep and his induction into the Red Bull Historic Military Vehicle Association..
A beloved husband of 40 years, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, Bob will be missed by many. He is survived by his wife, Adrienne (Andy); children, Stephen, Gregory, Carrie DuFresne, Pamela Barnard, David, John, James Barnard and Kirsten A. Banks-Cutler; 15 grandchildren; and brothers, Philip) and Kimball; and former spouse, Norma H. Banks.
Bob was a member of St. Anthony Park United Church of Christ, where a memorial service was held May 16, followed by interment at Fort Snelling.
