Michael Bankson, 78, of Galena, died at 4:50 p.m. Thursday, September 21, 2023 at Westgate at the Wildwoods, in Joplin, Mo. following an illness. Born April 4, 1945, in Joplin, Mo. Mike was the son of Robert E Lee and Imogene Bernice (Swager) Bankson. As a young boy, Mike traveled across the world as his dad was in the military. He lived most of his life in Galena and attended Galena schools The past few years Mike extensively camped at Twin Bridges State Park at Grand Lake. He had worked several years at Tamko Roofing, in Joplin, Mo. He enjoyed fishing, camping, hunting, gambling and watching movies. He was an avid Kansas City Chiefs fan, but his greatest joy was watching his grandkids activities.
Mike and Linda Faye Porter were united in marriage February 28, 1973 at Miami, Okla. She preceded him in death March 27, 1996. His parents and one sister, Patricia Lee Bankson also preceded him in death.
Mike is survived by two sons Danny Bankson (Stacy), of Carl Junction, Mo. and Travis Bankson, of Trenton, Mo.; one daughter, Crystal Bilke, of Carthage, Mo. Six grandchildren, Alexis Bilke, Drew Bilke, Quinton Bankson, Hunter Bankson, Katie Bankson, and Nathan Bankson; three great-grandchildren, Darby Faye Bilke, Draco James Bilke and Milly Jeanne Bilke; and a close friend, Anne Pendergraft, of Miami, Okla. also survive.
Cremation is under the direction of Derfelt Funereal Home of Galena.