Obituary of ATCS Gregory Allen Banas, U.S. Navy,

The world became a better place September 30, 1958, the day Gregory Allen Banas was born to Adam H. and Shirley R. Banas. His elementary school years were spent in Roseville, Michigan, with older siblings, Michele and Robert. At age 14, Greg relocated with his family to rural Brown City, Michigan. Even at the young age of 15, Greg dreamed of a career in the U.S. Navy. Following graduation from BCHS in 1976, he followed his life-long dream. Even before enlisting, Greg was very disciplined and patriotic, which served as a strong foundation throughout his entire life. He proudly served his country for 26 years as an Aviation Electronics Technician, retiring in July 2002 as a proud Senior Chief. Throughout his military career, Greg touched and influenced many lives in positive, encouraging ways. He expected and achieved excellence not only from himself, but from everyone he encountered. These high standards led him to also graduate in August 2002 with a bachelor's degree in Electronic Systems Management from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale.On May 12, 1979, Greg married his high school sweetheart, Lori Welch. Through their 25-year marriage, they were truly blessed with two wonderful children, Adam and Anya. Greg was always so proud of his kids and their amazing accomplishments. He served as an incredible role model. The birth of his "favorite" granddaughter, Alexis Kassbaum, brought Greg so much joy. He was her special "Papa Greg" for nearly six years and he loved to spoil her every chance he could get. Although they divorced, Greg and Lori were able to remain very close friends and share special time together with their loving family. After living in Southern California for 13 years, Colorado Springs became Greg's new home in 2004. Here he formed some incredible friendships and pursued his hobbies whenever he wasn't traveling for work. One of his greatest passions started 40 years ago with the flight of his first remote control airplane. Anything relating to aviation brought Greg happiness. He enjoyed building and flying RC planes and helicopters, a hobby that he shared with his many friends in the Pikes Peak RC Club. His personal RC collection would make any hobby-store owner envious.Another activity that Greg excelled at was a good, competitive racquetball match. He played intensely and as often as possible with an amazing group of friends at the USAFA Fitness Center. As they say at the club, "You're only as good as your last match." As it turns out, Greg did win the last match he played.Following his USN retirement, Greg enjoyed 15 years of work with AeroVironment, Inc. The job found him traveling throughout the world to places such as Afghanistan, Switzerland, Dubai, Iraq, Australia, Poland, Egypt, Czech Republic, and more. Greg worked as Chief SUAS (Small Unmanned Aerial Systems) Flight Instructor and Operator. His primary job was to fly UAV's and train both U.S. and foreign military personnel in UAV operations. As with his military career, he strove for perfection in all areas of his performance. He took great pride knowing that he played an active role in the Global War on Terrorism, not only while on active duty, but also through his civilian job. His family and friends were appreciative and proud of his dedication, hard work and many sacrifices.As important as these things were to Greg, nothing ranked higher than the deep passion he had for his family and friends. He was an extremely humble, dedicated man with a heart of gold. He would willingly sacrifice his own comfort and needs for those of his family and friends, as well as a total stranger. For this man, as long as he had his Magic Green Van and his Diet Pepsi, all was good in the world!At 60 years young, Greg left us brokenhearted when he passed away at home on May 8, 2019 following a hard-fought battle with cancer. His absence will leave an immense void that can never be filled, but we will forever aspire to be half the person he was. Thank you for all that you have been, Greg.Left behind to cherish his memory is son, Adam G. Banas; daughter, Anya K. Singer; granddaughter, Alexis Kassbaum; sister, Michele (Wayne) Pemble; brother, Robert (Diane) Banas; uncles, David Michelli and Donald Daws; cousins, Lynn (Dave) Bonar, Suzanne (Bill) White, and Michael (Marilyn) Banas; nieces, Jill (Rob) McLaughlin and Dawn Grulke; nephew, Joshua Banas; long-time friend and former spouse, Lori Welch; and "Mom", Barbara Welch.During the past few months Greg was blessed to be enveloped in love and care not only by his family, but by exceptional neighbors and cherished friends, Robert and Linda Swales, and Harmony and Casey Ryska.Preceding him in death are his parents, Adam H. and Shirley Banas; aunt, Zoeann Daws.Please join us in remembering this wonderful man in a Celebration of Life Memorial Service, 11:30AM, Saturday, June 1, 2019, The Springs Funeral Services-North, 6575 Oakwood Boulevard, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80923.The family is forever grateful for the loving and compassionate care provided by Interim Healthcare (Hospice). Thank you for the comfort you brought to Greg and our entire family.While flowers are appreciated, those of you wishing to honor Greg are kindly asked to contribute to Interim Healthcare (Hospice), 1901 North Union Boulevard, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80909. Events Celebration of Life Saturday, June 1, 2019 11:30AM The Springs Funeral Services - North 6575 Oakwood Blvd. Colorado Springs, CO 80923 Phone: 719-207-8611