Obituary of Walter H Banks

Walter H Banks, Jr., "The Aging Rebel", age 61, of Ocean View, NJ. We have lost our beloved brother, protector, keeper of secrets, and best friend. Walter quietly slipped away on Thursday, December 24, 2015. It was a fitting day as he was truly a gift to all that knew and loved him. Walter was predeceased by his mother Lillian L Pickens, his father Walter H Banks, Sr., and his beloved nephew Marc E Dodson. He is survived by his siblings: sister Cecil (Steve) Sullivan, brother Herbert (Saundra) Pickens, sister Kandace (James) Affa, and sister Amy (Ryan) Litton. Also surviving are: brothers-in-law Bob Dodson & Bob Affa; nieces: Staycee Dodson, Whitney (Brad) Benedetto & Holly (Rich) Cotter; nephews: Robert Dodson & Christopher (Cortney) Litton; great nieces: Gabrielle Dodson, Mia Cotter, & Olivia Litton; and great nephews: Benjamin Calabrese, Mace Litton, & Wesley Benedetto. Walter came into this world on a warm spring day, May 20, 1954. Although he was born and raised in Cape May, NJ; once Walt became an adult he married Geri (the love of his life) and settled in Vineland, NJ. From a very young age Walt had the innate ability to fix anything. As a natural machinist, when a device or part was needed that on many occasion hadn't been invented yet, he just designed and made it himself. He was a results-driven overachiever with amazing organizational skills who truly lived by the motto that there was a place for everything and everything should be in its place. For most of his life he enjoyed working for Desiere Electric Motor Services also in Vineland, NJ. But late in life he yearned for a deeper connection and meaning in life that he was lucky enough to find. When most people were thinking about retirement Walt went to work for Easter Seals of New Jersey. What he found in the outreach services for people living with autism and other disabilities was his true calling. For Walt it didn't matter who you were or from where you came, everyone deserved to be treated with dignity and respect. Walter continued to help others and live his life in his Vineland, NJ home until his health deteriorated and daily care was needed. For the past 2 years Walter resided at Autumn Lake Health Care in Ocean View, NJ. While there Walter made quite an impression on residents and staff alike. To say he was well known throughout the facility would be a gross understatement. Our family will be forever grateful for the care, compassion and kindness shown to our brother from everyone at Autumn Lake. Walt truly lived life on his own terms. He didn't just say it, he actually did it. And those who knew him best know there was never a dull moment. His boundless energy left those around him thoroughly exhausted. From a very young age he had a lifelong love affair with animals, machines, fast cars and motorcycles. He was a true biker to the very core of his being, not one of those that talked the talk but the kind that walked the walk. When he wasn't working Walt was traveling hundreds of thousands of miles on his Harley in unimaginable weather from coast to coast supporting causes that were close to his heart. He rode for Bikers against Child Abuse, Bikers against Animal Cruelty, Bikers for Veterans, countless Toys for Tots programs and many others. The freedom Walt felt while riding is something only a biker can possibly understand. His, as well as many a great biker's greatest purpose in life is passing on their knowledge, helping and taking care of others and protecting those he loved. To him it was this simple: Do no harm and help those in need – period. Respecting his wishes, all arrangements will be private. To share condolences, please visit www.evoyfuneralhome.ocm.