Frank Banton died peacefully in his home this past Sunday October 4th 2020. Born Frank Douglas Banton on September 11th, 1931 near Calgary, Alberta, Frank’s parents, Etta (née Dowler) and Herbert Banton along with his younger sister Beryl (wife of Vincent Uttaro) moved to Montreal in 1936.
Nicknamed “Sunny” for his bright and cheerful disposition, a trait that characterized Frank throughout his life, he grew to become an avid outdoorsman, hunter, angler and, above all, a passionate skier. As a young man, he worked hard during the spring, summer and fall months in order to earn enough money to spend entire ski seasons on the slopes. It is no wonder he fell head over heels in love with Lucy Leimann, another ski bum, on the hills of Mont St-Sauveur. Lucy always said she knew right away that this rugged yet smart man would be her life mate. Married on July 14th 1956, Frank hung up his hunting rifles and began a long beautiful life with Lucy surrounded by loving family. Devoted father to Jeff and Jennifer, Frank was a rock solid example of self-discipline, determination, loyalty, learning, and quiet resilience. A respected employee of Canadian National Railway, Frank continued his education while working and raising his young family, earning a Bachelor degree from Sir George Williams University in 1970. He was promoted to Senior Draftsman and led several major design projects until he retired to tend his award-winning gardens in 1991. As the family grew, Frank opened his heart to daughter-in-law Karin Banton (née Jeschek) and son-in-law James Patterson. The apple-of-his-eye-granddaughter, Cydney Banton, stole his heart and was proudly followed by his treasured grandsons Ian, Malcolm and Andrew Patterson.
Frank Banton: beloved husband, dedicated father, loyal friend and proud grandfather; you were a pillar of strength in our lives and you will be deeply missed by us all.
Special thanks to Dr. Alan Maclean, Dr. Miller, Dr. Trifiro and the countless other medical professionals who helped our beloved father win his fierce battle with cancer. Donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society https://www.cancer.ca/en/donate/?region=qc&s_srx=cancer.ca-navbar-en
Due to the COVID 19 pandemic, there will be no public celebration. A small family gathering will replace a traditional funeral. Condolence cards can be sent to The Banton Family at 196 Mount Vernon Lachine, QC H8R 1K2
When I feel the paddle pull water under my canoe,
When I see the Northern Lights shine their magic,
When I smell the rich balsam pines,
When I hear the lonely loon call,
I will think of you again.
Thank you, Dad.
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