James Banks

He was born September 18, 1942 in Standish, Michigan to Lial and Eloise Banks. Jim was a graduate of Graceland College in Lamoni, Iowa, and Central Michigan University in Mt. Pleasant, MI, followed by Wayne State University, where he earned his law degree.

Jim had a strong sense of community service and a love for the law. During his over 50-year legal career, he served as prosecuting attorney and probate judge for Ionia County, and judge for the 8th Circuit Court in Ionia and Montcalm Counties, followed by the private practice of law in Lake Odessa, Michigan. Jim also served as a county commissioner for Ionia County for many years until his retirement from public service in early 2020.

Growing up as a farm kid, Jim was always interested in antique tractors, farm machinery and agriculture. He was also a classic automobile enthusiast and an avid reader of historical non-fiction, especially books about the beginning of our nation and its founders. Jim was a skilled craftsman and builder, and took great pleasure in his many remodeling and home improvement projects. Jim had a big heart and a kind soul, as can be attested to by his family, friends, acquaintances, caregivers and professional colleagues. Most of all, he was extremely proud of his children and grandchildren, whom he loved dearly.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, and uncle and aunt Theo and Elaine Banks. He will be deeply missed by his wife Karen; daughters Sara Davis (and partner Jade Freeman) and Jane Stoddard; son Patrick (Hailey) Kane; brother Tom (Marvyn) Banks; cousins Bill (Sue) Banks and Susie (Dale) Leyder; grandchildren Blake, Zach, Sam, Nora, Hannah and Margaret, along with many nieces and nephews.

Jim’s family would like to thank the angels of Eaton County Health & Rehabilitation Services in Charlotte, Michigan for the constant, loving attention they provided to Jim and family during the last years and days of Jim’s life. Also, a thank you to the staff at Green Acres Assisted Living in Ionia, Michigan for their compassionate and professional care.

Private burial has taken place at Lakeside Cemetery in Lake Odessa. Memorial contributions to the Ionia County Animal Shelter, 3853 Sparrow Drive, Ionia, MI 48846, or the charity of one's choosing would be appreciated. Please visit www. www.dignitymemorial.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Jim’s family.