Banman, Arthur (1904-1996)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 25 Jan 1996 p. 8

Birth date: 1904

text of obituary:

NEWTON & VICINITY

Arthur Banman, 91, of North Newton, a farmer, custodian and press operator at Mennonite Press in Newton, died Jan. 17 at Newton Medical Center. Services were held at Bethel College Mennonite Church, North Newton. Survivors include his wife, Frieda; four daughters, Lela Trewett of Shawnee, Marjorie Neufeld of Lakewood, Colo., Joan Wiebe of Aurora, Colo., and Elaine Schrag of Burrton; a sister, Rachel Reimer of Goessel; 12 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1 Feb 1996 p. 11

ARTHUR BANMAN

Arthur Banman was born June 29, 1904, in McPherson County, Kan., to Frank Banman and Anna Quiring Banman. He attended Preparatory School in Goessel for two years. He was baptized in 1922 and joined Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church.

On Aug. 26, 1926, he married Frieda Schmidt, who survives. Four daughters were born: Lela Trewett of Shawnee, Marjorie Neufeld of Lakewood, Colo., Joan Wiebe of Aurora, Colo., and Elaine Schrag of Burrton. Arthur and Frieda had 12 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. An infant brother and Arpa Goertzen preceded him in death. A sister, Rachel Reimer, survives.

For a time, he farmed in the Goessel community. Being a musician, he began playing the church organ at age 14 in his home church.

In 1950 Arthur and Frieda moved to North Newton, where he began employment with Mennonite Press. In 1951 he joined Bethel College Mennonite Church. He was a loyal member, serving on various church boards, singing in the choir and playing in the bell choir.

Art and Frieda served with Mennonite Central Committee in the Congo, now Zaire, from 1962 to 1964. In spite of tribal warfare, which put them in physical danger several times, this was one of the most enriching experiences of their lives. It provided a new world view and brought them a host of lifelong friendships.

Family relationships have been of utmost importance. He was a gentle man with a cheerful outlook and a sense of humor. He was an avid reader, enthusiastic traveler and a lifelong learner. He loved music, playing the piano every day. He seldom missed a time for morning devotions. He had a strong sense of God's goodness, leading and presence in his life and often expressed this to others.

He died at Newton Medical Center on Jan. 17, 1996, after major surgery. Frieda, his family and friends will always treasure the joy of having shared his life.