Harry E. Bankert

Harry Elbert Bankert was born to Jacob James and Bernadine (Fallon) Bankert on August 17, 1942, in Baltimore, MD and departed this life in Lawton, OK, on September 15, 2010, at the age of 68 years and 29 days. Harry grew up in Baltimore, MD. He joined the United States Navy and was a Vietnam Veteran, serving his country honorably for 20 years. Upon his retirement he made his home in Sterling, CT, until beginning a 20 career in Civil Service. Through those years he lived and worked in Germany, New York and eventually made his way to Ft. Sill, OK, were he was the Assistant Manager at Deca Commissary, retiring in 2005. Harry married Lore (Doose) Feltkamp on November 20, 1989, in Kopenhagen, Denmark and they made their home west of Walters. He enjoyed woodworking, gardening, fishing and gold digging. However, following his son's tragic death Harry's mission in life became fighting drunk driving. He founded the Cotton County Chapter of MADD in Walters several years ago and was still serving as chapter coordinator, and also served on the board for Youth Services of Stephens County. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his son, Jacob James Bankert, III. Survivors include his wife Lore of the home; 2 daughters, Linda Muzik and husband John of Woodlawn, TN, and Denise Richards and husband Micheal J. of Theresa, NY; a step-son, Frank Feltkamp and wife Marion of Osnabrueck, Germany; a brother, Willard Bankert and wife Judy of Baltimore, MD; 3 grandchildren, Michel, Tim and Julia Celine Feltkamp; other relatives and many friends.