Melvin Banks

Melvin Lloyd “Mike” Banks Jr. was called home on January 8, 2026, at St. Luke Nursing Home in Spencer, Iowa. He was born December 1, 1944, in Storm Lake, Iowa, the son of Melvin and Gladys (North) Banks.

Mike was a man who lived life on his own terms, guided by hard work, loyalty to family, and a deep appreciation for the things he loved most.

Mike spent part of his youth in Pocahontas, Iowa, where he fondly remembered his junior high years. After Pocahontas he lived in Storm Lake, Iowa before moving to Minnesota where he graduated High School. At the age of 28, Mike was drafted into the United States Army, an experience that became part of the story of his life. As a young adult, he moved to San Diego, California, where he lived for approximately 15 years. During that time, Mike worked for Bar Boy for nearly 20 years, installing liquor dispensing systems across the United States—a job that allowed him to travel extensively and take pride in his craftsmanship.

In 1988, Mike returned to Iowa to help care for his mom Gladys and his 2nd Father Bill Schmeling. After moving back, he sold Jacuzzi hot tubs in the Arnolds Park area for several years. When Polaris came to Spirit Lake, Mike joined the company and worked there for eight years.

Mike had a lifelong love for animals. In California, he shared his home with Sam, a Siamese cat who lived to be 15 years old, as well as two toy miniature Dobermans, Cesar and Morgan, who brought him great joy and companionship.

He was especially proud of his restored 1972 Camaro—antique white with black pinstripes and rally rims—which he meticulously rebuilt, including the interior. Mike also enjoyed riding his Yamaha 75 and Yamaha 400 motorcycles through the California desert, embracing the freedom of the open terrain.

Ocean fishing was another passion of Mike’s, and one of his most cherished memories was taking his father, Bill, fishing during a visit to California. Of all the places he traveled, Mike often said Hawaii was the best place he had ever visited.

He also enjoyed gambling and hosting card games, welcoming friends to gather around the poker table in his home. In California, Mike found simple pleasure and relaxation playing his real pinball machine, a favorite pastime. He was also a pool shark and a great marksman at playing darts.

During his life, Mike was married to Carla, Mugsey (Margaret), and Admara. Later in life, he also had a special friend Gwen Kunce.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Gladys (Mom) Schmeling; his father, Melvin Lloyd Banks Sr. (Agnes), his siblings, George, JoAnn (Bill Miller & Dennis Condon), Ronnie (Carol), Vernon (Virginia), and Gary (Mary), his nephew, Rodney.

Mike is survived by one sister-in-law Colette, many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Mike will be remembered for his independent spirit, his love of travel, mechanical craftsmanship, animals, making people laugh and the memories he created with those around him.

The family would like to acknowledge a special thank you to all the special people who took great care of Mike at St. Luke

The Service will be livestreamed at:

https://www.youtube.com/live/oDVSzFvFgyw?si=j7pIpIJEL-qgxLch

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established.