Charles “Warren” Banning

Warren Banning was born on June 25, 1925. He grew up on a farm near Clinton Lake and attended a small school called Model School for eight years. When Warren’s father became the sheriff, they moved to town and lived in the county jail for four years. Warren then went to Memorial High School and played football. He enjoyed an undefeated football season senior year. Afterward, they moved back to the farm, and Warren helped with the farm work. In 1948, he attended KU for two semesters and played football, this was back in the leather helmet days. Warren and his partner, Robert Bigsby, started a business selling tractors and farm equipment the following year. In September 1950, Warren married LaVesta Rule. In 1951, he joined the Army and trained as a radio operator. Warren was stationed in Japan and played football there. He enjoyed traveling around Japan, playing football, and having the good fortune of eating a little better than those not on the football team. He left the Army in 1953 and returned to Lawrence, KS.

Warren and LaVesta had two children, Nancy Marie and Bruce Warren. Life was busy raising two children and tending to various businesses. Throughout Warren’s extensive career in business, he ventured into numerous companies. He owned various enterprises, ranging from the Banning Christmas Tree Farm to Snappy Gas, Banning Liquor, Banning Oil, Banning Ice, and Banning Sales & Service. Besides his dedication to his work, Warren knew how to find joy in life. He relished activities such as bowling, attending sporting events, and cherishing quality time with his loved ones and friends. He was a familiar face at the local American Legion, where he could often be found dancing the night away.

Many fond memories filled Warren’s heart, but one that stood out was his unforgettable journey to the 1945 World Series playoffs in St. Louis, accompanied by his friend Walt Thome. It was during the gas rationing, and Walt had installed an extra gas tank in the vehicle just in case. Once the playoffs ended, they traveled to the actual World Series between the Chicago Cubs and the Detroit Lions. They didn’t have places to stay or tickets but found accommodations via friendly folks and got tickets once they arrived. A true adventure, back in the good old days.

Warren never met a stranger and was loved by not only his immediate family but also by his extensive network of friends and the wider community. He had an extraordinary talent for entertaining, and his homemade ice cream was always a significant hit. To say that Warren knew about moderation would be an understatement – his name could have been listed as the embodiment of this virtue in the pages of Webster’s dictionary. He lived a life of simplicity, finding joy in the little things and appreciating the beauty of ordinary moments. Warren had a firm handshake, a gift for kindness and wisdom, and an infectious personality that made everyone interacting with him look forward to their subsequent encounter. His presence was cherished by numerous groups, such as his beloved Dunkin Donuts pals, his McDonald’s coffee group, and, more recently, the Munchers crew.

But above all, Warren cherished his family – his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren held a special place in his heart. He spoke affectionately of his great grandson Quinten and loved his visits and IHop breakfasts with Owen and Avery, who affectionally called him Papa Two. It is an understatement to say that Warren’s passing will leave a void in those who knew him, particularly his cherished family. He has reunited with his parents and beloved wife, LeVesta, who all went before him. Surviving Warren is his daughter Nancy Amison, son Bruce, three grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren, who will forever hold his memory of the time spent with him in their hearts.

The family will have a Graveside service on October 27 at 3:00 p.m. at the Washington Creek Cemetery, 607 E. 550 Rd Lone Star.  A Celebration of Life will be immediately following.