Gerald M. "Mike" Bantner Obituary (1946 - 2018)

Gerald M. "Mike" Bantner, 71, of Pana, passed away at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 in his home. He was born August 7, 1946 in Taylorville to Gerald & Marilyn (Schwarm) Bantner. He was raised by his maternal grandparents, John & Juanita Schwarm, on their family farm in rural Pana. He married Judy M. Allen on January 14, 1967. They resided in Pana their whole lives. He was retired from A.E. Staley/Tate & Lyle in Decatur. He enjoyed metal detecting and fishing during his retirement. He is survived by his wife, Judy of 51 years; daughter, Nancy (Frank) Pruett of Pana, IL; son, Michael (Branda) Bantner of Heyworth, IL; He is also survived by 5 grandchildren: Holly (Levi) West, Kyle Pruett, and Bethanie, Braidyn, & Breck Bantner, 4 great grandchildren, along with 2 siblings, Pricilla McGuire of Clearwater, FL and Robin Moomey of Pana, IL and many nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and 3 brothers: John, Pat & Dennis Bantner. Cremation rites have been accorded. A graveside service will be held Saturday, April 14, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. in Twin Pines Cemetery, Pana.