Paul Wesley Bankert, Sr., age 78, of Kirklin, Indiana, passed away surrounded by his family on Wednesday evening, August 29, 2018 at IU North Hospital. Born January 22, 1940 in Indianapolis, he was the son of the late Howard Henley and Mable Belle (Baker) Bankert. Paul attended Shortridge High School and would later serve his country in the United States Marine Corps. For many years Paul owned and operated Paul’s Scavenger Service. When he wasn’t running his business, Paul loved spending time with his friends and family. One of his favorite things to do was to head out to fish fries with one of his best friends, Larry Kinkead. When he could find the time, Paul would try to get in a little hunting and fishing, or just take the motorcycle out for a ride. When it was time to relax however, nothing topped just sitting around the house of an evening and watching Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune. He was also a man of faith who had a very strong devotion to his God. Paul attended Tetersburg Christian Church.
Paul is survived by his loving wife, Sandra Ann (Lumpkins) Bankert. She and Paul were married on March 29, 1963. Also surviving are his 3 sons, Troy Wesley Bankert of Cleveland, Ohio, Paul Wesley Bankert, Jr. (Sharon) of Zionsville, and Curt Wesley Bankert of Kirklin; 2 daughters, Christy Jo Hopkins of Zionsville, and Gina Lynn McKinley (Mike) of Carmel; 10 grandchildren, Jessica, Daniel, Alysa, Charles, Joseph, Wesley, Lucas, Oliver, Sam, and Nicholas; his sister, Anna Marie Franklin of Indianapolis; and last, but certainly not least, his dog Sissy. Sissy and Paul were inseparable. Wherever Paul went, Sissy was most certainly gonna follow. When it was Jeopardy time, or any time Paul sat down for that matter, Sissy was in his lap. It didn’t matter if he was ready or not, here came Sissy. And believe you me, when Sissy wanted a treat, that dog would stare him down until Paul finally give in, which could be a little unnerving when Sissy was situated in his lap and decided it was time for one of those staring contests.
He was preceded in death by his parents; 5 sisters, Frances, Mable, Rebecca, Nancy, and Jacqueline Rose; 2 brothers, Richard and John; and by his granddaughter, Sandra Christine Bankert Hopkins.
A private family gathering is being planned for a later date.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Kercheval Funeral Home in Sheridan.