In Memory of Jeff Banken

Jeff Banken, son of Bernard Banken of Dexter, Missouri, and Jeanie Morris French of Dexter, Missouri, was born on November 26, 1966, in Dexter, Missouri, and departed this life on August 13, 2026, at his residence in Dexter, at the age of 59 years.

On March 4, 2000, in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, he was united in marriage to Amy Jacquin. Mrs. Banken survives in their home in Dexter.

Jeff was a former fire fighter for the Cape Girardeau, Missouri Fire Department, and a former salesman of fire service apparatus for Banner Fire Equipment in St. Louis, Missouri. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic in Dexter, the Dexter Lions Club, the Dexter Elks Lodge #2439 and the Knights of Columbus.

Jeff’s heart came to life in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, where he and his wife loved the open sky, the cold winds, the clear lake waters and the snow. He thrived in the challenge of a good dove hunt and an illusive crappie. Perhaps most of all, Jeff loved time spent in the bleachers or on the sidelines, watching his adored grandchildren compete in various season sports. With those grandchildren in mind, perhaps even surpassing fishing and hunting seasons, Jeff cherished the season of Christmas. The spirit of the holiday called his name each year, to be met with unmatched joy.

Along with his wife and parents, he is survived by his son, Matt Banken and wife Amelia of Dexter, Missouri; by his sister, Lisa Banken of Dexter, Missouri; by five grandchildren, Reese Banken, Rush Banken, Wren Banken, Knox Banken, and Lark Banken; and by other extended family members.

Jeff leaves behind a host of loved ones that includes in-laws, nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins, and a multitude of dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Durverd Jacquin and Ruth (Glosemeyer) Jacquin.

Memorials may be made to Dexter Lions Club, PO Box 814, Dexter, MO 63841 or Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 102 E Caster Street, Dexter, MO 63841.

Visitation will be held at Mathis Funeral Home in Dexter on Sunday, August 16, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. with a Rosary service at 7:00 p.m. A funeral mass will then be conducted at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Monday, August 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. with Father David Coon officiating. Interment will follow in Hagy Cemetery.

Mathis Funeral Home in Dexter is assisting with arrangements.