Anthony "Tony" Banich Jr.

Anthony "Tony" Banich Jr.

October 03, 1950 - August 05, 2023

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Obituary

Anthony “Tony” John Banich Jr., 72, of Indianapolis passed away peacefully on August 5, 2023 surrounded by the love of his family. He was born in Indianapolis to Anthony “Tony” John Sr. and Florence Viola Banich on October 3, 1950. Tony was the first graduating class from Cardinal Ritter High School in 1968. He was a mechanic who owned and operated several service stations, and then in the early 1980's opened Banich Automotive where he retired after 20 years.

Tony was an avid car lover. He was a true jack-of-all trades, he was a skilled handyman with remarkable ability to repair anything placed in front of him. With an extraordinary sense of humor that brightened any space, he fearlessly spoke his mind. His ability to talk for hours and share stories will leave an everlasting memory. He will be fondly remembered as a cherished mentor and coach to numerous family members and friends, including those of his beloved son and daughter. In his lifetime, he generously shared his knowledge through hands-on lessons, dedicating time to teach others. His unwavering passion for aiding others and his willingness to offer guidance and assistance will be remembered as a true testament to his character.

Tony was devoted to his family. He was a loving husband, caring father, supportive father-in-law, and proud grandpa. He took immense joy in his five grandsons, who were the radiant light of his world. He had an extraordinary sweet tooth. He loved his Long's donuts and Little Debbie treats. Tony also enjoyed dancing, playing golf, and attending family gatherings with all of his siblings, nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends.

Over the past several years Tony has struggled immensely with his health and mobility. Throughout this journey, his devoted wife served as his primary caregiver, enabling him to remain at home where he felt most comfortable. We find peace and comfort in knowing Tony is now in a better place where he is no longer suffering.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony “Tony” John Sr. and Florence Viola Banich; brother-in-law, Rob Wagner and Tommy Dotson; sister-in-law Majorie Poore; and nephews, Matthew Bennett and Tyler Phillips.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Kathleen Marie (Poore) Banich; son, Anthony “Tony” Banich III (Erika); daughter, Angie (Banich) Fleenor (Norman); grandchildren, Norman Fleenor IV, Noah Fleenor, Anthony Banich IV, Aidan Banich and Arie Banich; sisters, Trina Chastain (Don), Rosanne Bennett, Mary Lou Fox, Rebecca Meehan (Steve) and Lucy Wagner; brothers, Jim Banich and Paul Banich (Darlene). Also including an abundance of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

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Anthony "Tony"
BC
Brenda McNulty Conroy
Other •
Dear Kathy, Angie and Tony, sending you my love and sincerest condolences to you and all those Tony has touched throughout his remarkable life. His love for you all is immeasurable and may you find comfort in the loving memories you share.
BC
Bridget Cowper
Other •
Dear Kathy, Tony & Angie and families, Grandpa was always so involved in the boys programs, luncheons, grandparents breakfast and even just picking the boys up for the day! He was a wonderful man and I appreciate the example he gave all of us on being a wonderful grandpa! I remember Norman loved him so much and how he enjoyed talking about him and even gave prayer request for him to feel better. I’m praying for you all and I’m so sorry for your loss. Take Care! Bridget Cowper
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Tom and Cathy Deal
Other •
Our condolences to the Banich family on the passing of Tony. May he Rest in Peace.
DC
Denise Cole
Other •
My Uncle gave me many gifts throughout his life. Of the greatest significance are: Patience: He was a skilled and trusted mechanic that hand picked my "dream" car at the auction. Needless to say, my Camaro needed work done and he completed and delivered my car months, closer to a year, later. The waiting was challenging but I knew that the car would be safe and reliable. Guidance: I suffered my first panic attack at the age of 18. I knew my Uncle battled panic attacks too, so I reached out to him. He guided me through that time of my life and encouraged me to seek professional help. I recall him telling me "you don't want to end up like me". I will forever be grateful. Family: I babysat his children, my cousins, every summer while growing up. I witnessed the love he had for his wife and kids as well as his parents, siblings, nieces and nephews. My fondest memories are waking up in the middle of the night to the smell of cigarette smoke and hearing my Mom and Uncle talk for hours. As I got older, I joined them. To this day, the smell of fresh cigarette smoke brings me comfort. Family was everything to him and he was everything to us. Dignity: I had many a conversation with my Uncle about death. Suffering with panic, the ultimate fear is a sudden overwhelming fear that you are going to die. I was honored to be with my Uncle when he took his last breath. His last lesson was to show us how to pass from this life with dignity surrounded by love. Being present at that moment makes death seem not so scary. My heart is breaking for my Aunt Kathy, Angie, Tony, Norman, Erika, the boys and my entire Banich family. I find solace in knowing that he is no longer physically suffering and enjoying the company of his parents, aunts, uncles and nephews that went before him. Gone from our sight but never from our hearts, Denise
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Melissa (Zore) Hendricks (Steven)
Other •
Our condolences to the Banich family. Our family was connected with my father, Victor Zore Sr. and Tony Banich Sr. in business together. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
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Randy Heyob
Other •
My brother and I were classmates and friend to Tony both during our years at Ritter and afterward. Tony was able to get this sad car I owned running so my railroad life could go on. He will be missed by so many people! See ya down the road, buddy. Joe & Randy Heyob

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