"I have fond memories of Fritz from when my folks had their store in St. Joe (Smitty?s). A true gentleman and yes, he did have that ?gift of gab? - but in a good way! I had he occasion of seeing Fritz about 25 years ago or so when I was home to see my folks after they had moved to Livermore. He stopped by their house to say Hi while I was there. Fritz, as we say here in Hawaii: "Aloha oe" - Farewell to you and "A Hui Ho" - until we meet again. "
In loving memory of
Melvin "Fritz" Von Bank
December 27, 1927 - May 10, 2019
A memorial mass will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, May 14, 2019, at St. Cecelia Catholic Church. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 PM with a Rosary beginning at 4:45 PM on Monday, May 13, 2019 at St. Cecelia Catholic Church, Algona.
Melvin "Fritz" Charles Von Bank was born on December 27, 1927 in Irvington, the son of John and Christina (Kenne) Von Bank. Melvin attended Sherman District #3 country school through the eighth grade and then began working.
On November 15, 1961, Melvin made what he considered "the best decision ever", marrying Anna Marie (Berte) Streit and becoming the father to her five children. The wonderful love they shared with one another was a cornerstone in their lives and eventually added three more children of their own to their family.
Melvin had numerous jobs and was the jack of all trades. His favorites were owning and operating the Von Bank Oil Company and working for Black Top Service. He also had a passion for farming and driving truck. Melvin was a man of a lot of ambition and hard work.
Melvin was generous, loving, caring, optimistic and a dear friend to many. He loved to visit and most would say he had the gift of gab. Most of all, Melvin loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He also served on the St. Joseph School Board and was a member of St. Cecelia Catholic Church.
Melvin died Friday, May 10, 2019 at Good Samaritan Society - Algona. He was 91.
He is survived by his wife, Anna Marie of Algona; children, Ruth (Sid) Simonson of Whittemore, Jean (Joe) Mikes of West Bend, Charles (Pansy) Streit of Livermore, Linda (Gary) Carney of Cedar Falls, George (Kelly) Streit of Bode, Donald (Sandi) Von Bank of Bode, Delores "Lori" (Ed) Beisch of Manilla, Karen Cunningham of Baxter; 21 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; siblings, Geraldine Von Bank of Algona, Pat (Betty) Von Bank of Clear Lake; Bob Von Bank of Algona; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; infant granddaughter, Brittany; great-granddaughter, Serenity; siblings, Harold Von Bank, John J. Von Bank, Arlene (Robert) Wood; and sisters-in-law, Kay, Elizabeth and Betty Von Bank.
Tributes
"The Gene Kenne family send our heartfelt sympathy to Fritz's family. We fondly remember the big Kenne family reunions and all the good times at Dorweillers. Hugs and prayers to you all. Kathy, Kerry, Kevin, Karlene, Kyle, Kris, and Kent"
"sending prayers and sympathy to the Von Bank families. Terry & Kari Thilges "
"So sorry to hear of Fritz?s passing. I spent a lot of time at their home in St. Joe. Such a sweet guy! Love to Anna Marie, Lori and Karen and families!! ?"
"Thinking of you all as you celebrate Melvin's remarkable life. Melvin was my 1st cousin as his mother and my dad were brother and sister. May he rest in peace."
"A candle for my Uncle Fritzy"
"my heartfelt prayers on the loss of Uncle Fritzy. He was very special and worked very hard to provide for his family. May He Rest In Peace. I will miss him very, very much. "
"Mr. Von Bank was such a gentleman. He spoke fondly of his wife Anna and family. A hard working man. May he be at rest."
"Sending you all our prayers & sympathy
The Brad & Nicole Buscher Family "
"When I took communion to Mr. Von Bank, both in his apartment and at Good Samaritan, he was always so welcoming and upbeat. No matter how he was feeling, he always managed to smile and offer a bit of his positive philosophy. I will miss him. My prayers are with his family. Molly MacDonald"