After graduating from high school, he went to aviation school. He then enlisted in the Air Force for 4 years. In 1965 he moved to Texas to work for Big Three Industries in Bay City. A short time later he transferred to their plant in Victoria where he retired 41 years later as the plant manager for Air Liquide.
He was a handyman and a fixer-upper in his spare time. He said if it isn’t broke don’t fix it. He was an avid gamer, loved to fish, and travel, and occasionally took trips to casinos to gamble. He mostly loved to spend time with his family, especially his grandchildren who would call him “Poppy.”
Michael is survived by his wife of 41 years Virginia Jelinek Bantz, daughter: Melissa Svoboda (Sheldon) Trayce Lindsey; son Stephen Bantz, grandchildren; Ashlyn Svoboda, Mallory Svoboda, and Mary Ann Harper, brother: Allen Bantz (Patti) sister in laws; Marline Phillips, Darlene Jelinek, nephew; Thomas Phillips, and Charles Carlisle (Sana) niece; Heather Dutesa.
Michael is preceded in death by his parents; Brother-in-law; Frank Jelinek, and Mother-in-law; Elenora Jelinek.
Pallbearers' will be his family & friends.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, July 20, 2024, from 9-10 AM, with Funeral Service following at 10 AM, all at Rosewood Funeral Chapel. Burial to follow at Resurrection Cemetery.
In Lieu of flower donations can be made to MD Anderson Cancer Center or Holy Family Catholic Church.
Forever in our hearts. Rest in peace our angel!
Words of comfort, condolences and fond memories may be shared with the family at www.rosewoodfuneralchapel.com.
