Carmen Banda

Carmen Banda, age 85, passed away on Friday, September 17, 2021 in Lansing, Michigan. Carmen made her debut into this world on July 10th, 1936 to Andres and Olivia Gonzales. She was born in Texas and eventually moved to Michigan.

She married Manuel Banda in 1956, and in the 60’s they opened Banda’s Record Shop, the first Mexican record shop in Lansing. They were also the first to host Mexican dances at The Dells in East Lansing. They hosted many bands, including bands from Texas. Together they had 4 children. Carmen later took in and adopted 3 children, raising them as her own. She was a second grade school teacher’s aide in her early years and later retired from Michigan State University.

You could often find her cheering on her beloved Detroit Tigers, tending to her flowers or playing a few games of bingo and Dominos.

She will be remembered for being a very strong and independent woman who was very proud of her children and grandchildren.

She leaves to cherish her memory three daughters, Maria Elena (Cornelio) Cardenas, Juanita (Gerard) Hernandez, Cynthia (Tony) Banda; one son, Manuel (Maria) Banda Jr.; three adopted sons, Mundo (Veronica) Gonzales, Andy Gonzales and Jesse (Sarah) Gonzales; and many grandchildren.

A Funeral Mass is pending.

Goodbyes are only for those who see just with the eyes because for those who love with the heart, there are no goodbyes. She was loved wholeheartedly. Until we meet again.