Obituary of Wayne Walter Banttari

Wayne Walter Banttari, 82, of Aurora, MN died peacefully on August 13, 2017, at Carefree Assisted Living in Aurora. He was born on June 1, 1935 in Bismark, ND to Jacob and Hilma Banttari as the youngest of 15 children. He is survived by Joyce (Wiitala) his wife of 54 years; children: Karen (Mark) Stevens, Daryl (Dana) Banttari and Loren Paul Banttari; 4 grandchildren, 5 stepgrandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Also surviving are sister, Ina Backman and sisters-in-law Adeline Banttari and Marlene Banttari plus many nieces, nephews and dear friends. Wayne was raised in Hibbing, MN. He was a career draftsman, having been employed in the Twin Cities, International Falls and Hoyt Lakes. He retired from LTV Steel after 32 years of employment. He then enjoyed 20 years of pursuing hobbies that included travel, photography, woodworking, and many outdoor sports and activities. He loved the Lord and the many special friendships formed through church fellowship. He was a member of the Apostolic Lutheran Church and later the First Baptist Church of Aurora. True to his Finnish heritage, he loved getting together for coffee, goodies and conversation. His gentle nature, love of dogs, and his sense of humor with endless pranks will be sadly missed. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 26 at 1:00pm at First Baptist Church of Aurora with Pastor John Jacquart officiating. Visitation and luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred. Remains will be interred at the Embarrass Cemetery at a later date. His family is grateful for the compassionate and loving care provided by Carefree Assisted Living of Aurora and the East Range Hospice Team.