Born on November 17, 1948, in Youngstown, Ohio, Rich moved to Bradenton with his family in 1956, where he made his home for the remainder of his life.
Rich proudly served in the United States Army from 1969 to 1971, attaining the rank of Sergeant. A decorated Vietnam War combat veteran, he earned the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars.
Following his military service, Rich dedicated 30 years to GTE, later known as Verizon, before continuing his career at the Department of Veterans Affairs for another 10 years.
Rich also supported his wife, Nancy, as she established and grew Insurance Time of Bradenton, which she founded in 1979. He contributed behind the scenes during the agency’s early years, before their daughter, Bridget, took on the responsibility of continuing the family’s business legacy.
Some of Rich’s fondest memories were made at “The Lake,” a weekend home he and Nancy built in Lake Placid, Florida. Whether cruising the lake on his beloved pontoon boat, exploring the off-road trails in his Jeep, or riding ATVs, Rich enjoyed the freedom and adventure of the outdoors. The Lake became a favorite gathering place for family and friends, where countless weekends were spent enjoying each other’s company and creating lifelong memories.
Rich was an avid sports fan who especially enjoyed NASCAR racing and cheering on his beloved Tampa Bay Buccaneers. When he wasn’t watching a race or football game, he could often be found on the golf course, where he enjoyed a round of golf and an occasional cigar.
Rich took great pride in being a father and was always there to support his daughter, Bridget, never missing a volleyball match or golf tournament as she was growing up. Becoming a grandfather brought him even more joy. He had an immense love for his granddaughter, Brooke, who held a special place in his heart. Some of their sweetest memories were made in the kitchen, baking together or making his special pancakes, and around the table playing games like Sequence and Triominos. These simple moments created lasting memories that Brooke will carry with her.
Rich is survived by his wife of 45 years, Nancy Bancs; his daughter, Bridget Bancs, and her partner, Laura Rupp; his granddaughter, Brooke Clark-Bancs; his siblings, Karen McCrary, Edwin Bancs, Sharen Layne, Yvonne Ecker, and Kenneth Bancs; as well as several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Norma Bancs of Bradenton, Florida; his sister, Barbara Bancs; and his beloved aunt and uncle, Joseph and Dolores Bancs of Clearwater, Florida.
Family will greet friends on Wednesday, October 21, 2026 from 9:30 am until the time of service at 10 am, at Robert Toale & Sons Celebration of Life Center, 4310 Solutions Lane, Bradenton, FL 34211. Following service, a luncheon and fellowship will be held from 11am - 1pm. Following the luncheon, family and friends are invited to join in honoring Rich’s military service with burial and military honors at Sarasota National Cemetery, located at 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL 34241, at 2 pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Tidewell Hospice in appreciation of the compassionate care provided during Rich’s final days.
