Walter Martin Banko

He was drafted in 1943 and served 3 years with the US Army in North Africa, England, France and Germany. Walt was the Past Commander of Post 36 American Legion of Yakima.

Walt loved poetry and belonged to four writers groups while being the moderator of the Yak Writers of Yakima. Favoring rhyming and metered poetry Walt published a memoir of his life and writings (Reliving World War 11 a Memoir) on January 2001.

He was predeceased by his wife, Rosemary of 30 years in 2001 of Alzheimer’s. Following her death became Ombudsman of Washington State Long Term Care Program.

Walt is survived by his brothers, Charles & Russell Banko; daughters, Danita Banko and Sandra Smith; sons, Brian Banko and James Maxwell; 4 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchildren.

A Graveside Service will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 12, 2011 at Terrace Heights Memorial Park. Arrangements are under the care of Keith & Keith Funeral Home.