Mary Bankes

Mary O. Bankes, 101, of rural Elkader, died Friday, January 29, 2016, at Central Community Hospital in Elkader. Mary was born December 20, 1914, on a farm near Mederville, to George and Hilda (Lemka) Hubbard. She attended country school and Elkader Public School. She was baptized and confirmed in 1932, by Rev. Paul Kitterer in the Evangelical and Reformed Church.

She was united in marriage to Otto N. Bankes on November 25, 1933, in Charles City. Mary and Otto were long time members of Peace United Church of Christ in Elkader, where she served as a chairperson of various committees. Mary also served as a 4-H leader for 10 years and co-leader for five more years.

Mary and Otto were founders of Big Springs Trout Hatchery. She was the last surviving partner that developed the Big Springs into a fishing club. The Iowa Conservation Commission purchased Big Springs on March 1, 1961. After leaving Big Springs on December 1, 1973, the couple moved to a farm near Chicken Ridge where Mary continued to live for the past 42 years. Mary spent much time at her cabin on the Mississippi fishing. She enjoyed many bus trips, loved making quilts, bowling and playing cards.

She is survived by her brother, Harry Hubbard; stepson, Robert (Kathy) Bankes; step-grandchildren, Joel (Karen) Bankes, Julie Bankes Buis, Allen (Deb) Bankes; several step-great-grandchildren; step-great-great grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and friends.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sister, Florence Campbell; brother-in-law, Don Campbell and sister-in-law, Irene Hubbard.

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m., Monday, February 1, 2016, at Peace United Church of Christ in Elkader. Visitation was from 2 to 4 p.m., Sunday, January 31, 2016, at Leonard Funeral Home in Elkader and 10 a.m. until service time at the church on Monday. Interment was at Mederville Cemetery, Mederville.

Leonard Funeral Home and Cremation Service assisted the family. Condolences may be left with www.leonardfuneralhomes.com