Obituary (May 01, 2010)

Jack Banks, Aftermarket Executive, Passes at 75 Jack Banks, aftermarket veteran and former vice-president with the Service Parts Division of Dana Canada, passed away April 6 after a long battle with cancer.

He was 75.

Growing up in a small village near Beaver Valley, Ont., he was very proud of his ties to the Flesherton community, but left at 18 to pursue a baseball career in Oakville, Ont. Described as one of the most talented pitchers of the time, he was scouted by several major league farm teams.

However, the opportunity to stay in Canada and work with Ford Motor Company, based in Oakville, along with his small town roots, made him forego a move to the U.S.

Banks began his automotive career in 1953 as a mail boy at Ford, progressing very quickly to the position of buyer. In 1962, he left Oakville for Cambridge to join Kralinator Filters in sales.

During his 46 years in the automotive industry, he was known for generously sharing his experiences and knowledge and belonging to numerous associations. He also served on the United Way of Cambridge Automotive Association Golf Tournament committee for more than 15 years.

For those who wish to honour Jack Banks’ memory, a “Jack S. Banks Award of Excellence” fund has been established at Grey Highlands Secondary School, Box 460, Flesherton, ON NOC 1E0. Donation envelopes will also be available at the Galt Country Club.