Gary Bankert Obituary

Gary, L Bankert, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother-in-law, and uncle made his final trip to heaven on Sunday, April 6, 2025 at Firelands Hospital in Sandusky, Ohio. He is survived by his wife Carol Lee, a daughter, Alexandra Bankert Soucek (Matthew) of Dallas, Texas, two granddaughters, Genevieve and Sasha Soucek of Dallas, Texas, a sister-law Mary Pieratt (Hollie)of Lawrenceburg, Kentucky two nephews Gregory Pieratt (Priscilla) of Loretta, Tenn. and Scott Pieratt (Myra) of Frankfort, Kentucky and two nieces Barbara Ison (Paul) and AnnRose Ferguson (Charles)of West Liberty, Kentucky.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and Louis Bankert.
Gary was a graduate of Sandusky High School and the Academy of Broadcasting in Washington D.C. earning a Professional Diploma in Radio and Fine Arts. He received his BFA from the University of Cincinnati and his ME in Administration from Bowling Green University. Following graduation, he began his employment with the Edison School System that spanned 32 years as a teacher, athletic director, assistant principal. and middle school principal. His love of working with students was apparent in his coaching. His students referred to him as the "coach who liked to win."
Gary loved traveling and with his wife they visited 49 different countries, all 50 states, and Antarctica. They met at the University of Cincinnati and celebrated 58 years of marriage.
Gary was baptized and confirmed at Emmanuel UCC. He participated in their Lay Minister program and due to illness remained as an unaffiliated Christian. He was a member of Rho Tau Delta serving as president and selected as Man of the Year in graduation. Member of UC Student Union Board and General Manager of campus WFIB radio station. His honorary memberships included a commission to Kentucky Colonel Membership and a commission with rank of Admiral in membership of Kentucky REP Cabinet.
His community service was in participation in local festival activities. He was elected four years to the Estero Beach and Tennis Club Condo Association serving an additional four years as president. Gary loved people.
In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to Cancer Services on 505 E Perkins Ave, Sandusky Ohio, to the Erie Co. Humane Society, or one's choice.
Services will be at Toft Funeral Home, Hinman Chapel, 38 South Street, Berlin Heights on Saturday, April 19,2025 with visitation at 9:30-10:45. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 with Melvin Sayler officiating.
Toft Funeral Home, Hinman Chapel, Berlin Heights, is handling arrangements. Condolences may be shared online at toftfuneralhome.com.
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