Charles Ray Banister

Charles Ray Banister, 79, Overland Park, Kansas, passed away Friday, July 8, 2011, at his home.

Ray was born August 17, 1931, in Shelbyville, Indiana, to Ivan O. and Ruby Mae (Taylor) Banister. In 1951, Ray joined the US Navy serving in both the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War and retiring after 20 years of service in 1971. He spent the next 26 years working for the US Postal Service, retiring in 1997.

Ray was a member of the Queen of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church and the Fleet Reserve Association. He enjoyed working in his yard, puzzles and crafts in his retirement.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, sister and grandaughter, Caitlin. Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Patty Banister of the home; son, Jeff Banister and wife, Kelly, Kansas City, Missouri; daughter Denise Hendsbee and husband, Dale, Santa Cruz, California; twin brother, four sisters, and two granddaughters, Lauren Banister and Rachel Hendsbee.

Memorial contributions may be made to either the church or the American Heart Association, 6800 W. 93rd Street, Overland Park, Kansas 66212 or online at www.americanheart.org

Visitation and Funeral Service

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 am, Tuesday, July 12, 2011, at the Queen of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church; burial in the Shawnee Mission Memory Gardens. Friends may call from 10-11:00 am at the church.