Barbara Bannister

Barbara Lillian Bannister, 89, died Sunday, April 28, 2024, in Benkelman, NE. She was born April 6, 1935, in Colby, KS, to Thomas and Bessie (Dawes) Calliham. Barbara grew up in Colby and graduated from Colby High School, where, as a freshman, she met and began dating Melvin Banister. Barbara was offered an opportunity to attend Juilliard to focus on the piano. Instead, Melvin made the sale of his life, if Barbara would marry him, he agreed to have a baby grand piano for her wherever they lived. The couple were married on May 27, 1952, and Melvin kept his promise. They moved to Boulder, CO, where they were blessed with three children, Mike, Debbie and Terri. In 1963, Mel’s career took the family to Omaha, NE. After retirement the couple moved to Napa, CA, Tulsa, OK and Lawrence, KS. They enjoyed traveling and made many wonderful memories. Barbara enjoyed needlepoint, playing the piano and clarinet, reading, and she loved to decorate.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Melvin, and infant sons, James and John.

Barbara is survived by her children, Michael (Carolyn) Bannister, Debbie (Danny) Schorzman and Terri (David) Groat: grandchildren, Barbara (Danny) Wolfe, Katie (Eli) Cutright, Abbie (Drew) Garner, Justin (Kortne) Schorzman, Cassie (Daniel) Wilson, Elizabeth (Jerad) Garvin and Patrick (Makenzie) Groat; seven great grandchildren; brother Richard (Kathy) Calliham and sister Judy Calliham.

A graveside service will take place at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at Beulah Cemetery, Colby. Memorials may be made to the Colby United Methodist Church and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com