Obituary: Iris June (Wetz) Banman
Iris June (Wetz) Banman, 86, died on Tuesday (Aug. 14, 2012)
at Kidron Bethel in North Newton. Iris was born on May 26, 1926, in Wichita and
was adopted soon after birth by Herman and Myrtle (Ray) Wetz. Raised on a farm
near Kiowa, Iris went on to graduate with a degree in music education from Wichita
State University and played with the Wichita Symphony Orchestra. She taught in
Wichita, Clearwater and Ellinwood elementary schools and for many years gave
private piano and violin lessons. On May 26, 1953, she married John Banman. Iris
was an active volunteer throughout her life, serving as a church youth group
leader and on church boards and committees. She was a key supporter of the
Ellinwood youth Bible study group, and after moving to Hesston, she was a
volunteer with Prairie View Mental Health Center and helped to establish the
Hesston Resource Center. Iris was a confidant to many young people and was
often referred to as a “second mother” by many. She and John provided a host
home for several Vietnamese refugees, including Ngan Ha of Wichita, who with
his family continues to be an important part of the Banman’s life. Survivors
include her husband, John Banman of North Newton; daughter, Nancy Banman and
spouse, Stanley J. Scott; son, John Paul Banman and spouse, Robin A. Avery; and
stepson, Aaron.?Iris was preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Myrtle
Wetz; and brothers, Rev. Wayne Wetz and Edward Wetz. A memorial service will be
at 3 p.m. Saturday (Aug. 18, 2012) at Bethel College Mennonite Church of North
Newton. A social time will be in the church’s Fellowship Hall following the
service. Following cremation, a private family inurnment at Bethel College
Church will take place at a later date. A memorial has been established to
support childhood adoption, in care of Petersen Funeral Home. Iris’s life
touched many people. She will be remembered for her warm, loving spirit, as a
wonderful mother and wife, for her great sense of humor and saying “I love you”
to all until the very end. Petersen Funeral Home of Newton is in charge of the
arrangements. Visit www.petersenfamilyfuneralhome.com.
