May 17, 1943 — March 26, 2026
Marvin “Marv” Fred Banken, age 82, of Mason City, passed away Thursday, March 26, 2026, at his home surrounded by family.
A memorial service will be held Friday, April 3, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Major Erickson Funeral Home in Mason City, with military honors. A prayer service will take place at 5:30 p.m., and a family gathering will be held from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. prior to the celebration of life. Inurnment will be at Memorial Park Cemetery at a later date.
Marv was born May 17, 1943, in San Francisco, California, to Ole and Myrtle (Stromley) Banken. He graduated from Mason City High School and went on to serve his country in the United States Navy. During his service, he worked as a diesel mechanic aboard the USS Washoe County (LST-1165). Having spent more than his fair share of time standing in line and out on the water during his Navy years, Marv made it a point to avoid both whenever possible. Following his military service, Marv worked at Iowa Beef and as an iron welder—a job that kept him high enough off the ground that Kathy eventually suggested he find something a little safer. Marv worked at A.M.P.I. for 25 years—a job he liked to say gave him plenty of stories, and he made sure everyone heard them (more than once).
On July 13, 1974, he was united in marriage to Katherine (Hargis) Banken. Together they built a life centered on family, humor, and always being there for each other—even when he occasionally burned the chicken on the grill. Over 52 years, theirs was a partnership marked by plenty of laughs and a way of sticking it out together through anything life threw their way.
Marv was an avid sports enthusiast, rarely missing an opportunity to cheer on his favorite teams—the Minnesota Vikings, Chicago Cubs, and Iowa Hawkeyes. In his younger years, he spent many days on the golf course, enjoying both the game and the good company that came with it.
Known for his sharp wit, quick one-liners, and unmatched sarcasm, Marv had a unique way of showing his love—often through playful teasing. The more he razzed you, the more you knew you were loved—and his nieces and nephews were often the ones he picked on most. A proud Norwegian with a gruff exterior and a heart of gold, he was always willing to lend a helping hand whenever he could.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Kathy Banken; his children, Randy (Carrie) Banken, Kassie (Matthew) Barnes, and Brock Banken and partner Sebastian Wilmes; and his grandchildren, Brooke Stewart, Morgan Banken, Hayden Banken, Charlie Banken, Chance Banken, Sam Barnes, and Dean Barnes. He is also survived by four great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, his brother Dennis (Chris) Banken, and his in-laws Beanie Coonrod, Karen (Eric) Shurtz, Korrine (Lynn) Nelson, Keith (Stephanie) Hargis, Kim Hicken (Chris Kruger), and Konni Johnson (Chad Tannahill).
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ole and Myrtle Banken; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Roger and Marlene Hargis; his sisters, Janice Kothenbeutel and Linda Coonrod; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Marv will be remembered for his humor, his loyalty to family, and the way he showed his love—through teasing, laughter, and always being there when it mattered most. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Memorials may be directed to the family of Marvin Banken.
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