Lawrence Joseph Bank

Lawrence was the youngest of 19 children; born to Albert and Francis Bonk in Regina, Saskatchewan on June 17, 1936. He met his wife, Elaine Zawerucha, while driving taxicab in Regina in 1958 and they were married on July 6, 1959.

Lawrence worked several different jobs while in Regina. He owned a furniture refinishing and repair company, and then decided to try his hand at farming in Grenfell, Saskatchewan in 1969. In 1971 Lawrence heard the call of God to become a Minister. He dearly loved his Savior Jesus and faithfully worked as a Reverend and Evangelist for many years with his wife Elaine. He pastored churches in Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia and Northwest Territories. He had a weekly radio broadcast for many years, reaching listeners across Alberta and Saskatchewan. Lawrence started a ministry called North American Indian Missions in which he chartered planes to reach remote reserves in northern communities.

In retirement, Lawrence learned to play guitar at 65 years old and began an outreach called Gospel Melodies. He sang old time favorites with his guitar, banjo and violin in churches and retirement homes. He dearly loved playing the violin and was always happy to join the church orchestra. Lawrence was known as a prayer warrior and would spend many hours each day reading and studying his favorite book, the Bible, and praying for those in need.

Lawrence is celebrated and dearly missed by his wife Elaine; his sons Perry (Shirlee) and Brian (Bonita); his grandchildren: Jason (Kayla), Rochelle Longval (Jean-Michel), Dustin Grey (Caitlin) and Britney; his great-grandchildren: Grace, Sebastian, Zoé and River; his brother Adam; sister Mary Dyck and many wonderful nieces and nephews.

Lawrence's legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and in the memories shared with his many loved ones.

A funeral service was held in Grenfell Apostolic Church, Grenfell, Saskatchewan on Sunday, March 10, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. officiated by Norm Bonk. The pallbearers were: Perry Bank, Brian Bank, Jason Bank, Dustin Grey, Jean-Michel Longval and Britney Bank. The interment was in Grenfell Cemetery, Range Road 2074.

The family wishes to acknowledge with deep appreciation the many expressions of love, kindness and prayer shown to them during this time of bereavement.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Debt of Love Missionary Ministries through CanadaHelps.org at this direct link: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/jack-hunka-missionary-ministries/