Michael F. Banscher's Obituary
After living with cancer for 10 years, Mike Banscher passed away at home in Annapolis on September 4, 2022, five days after turning 74. He was born and raised in southern NJ. After exploring a possible vocation to the Jesuit priesthood, he pursued a career as an English teacher and relocated to Annapolis. Eventually he earned a second Master’s Degree (Community Development) and began working at the Community Action Agency on West Street until he was hired as Housing Program Director for the AA County Department of Aging. He held that position for 25 years until his retirement in 2014. During much of that time he taught English part-time at PG and AA Community Colleges. A long-time member of St. Mary’s Church, he served in numerous ministries. An avid reader, Mike also enjoyed watching the Phillies, Orioles, Villanova basketball and Notre Dame football. He loved the ocean.
Mike is survived by his wife of 22 years, Deirdre Elmore Banscher; stepdaughter Rachel Elmore of Queens, NY; stepson Christian (Nikki) and grandson Arik Elmore of Arbutus, MD; brother Roland (Lois) Banscher of Annapolis, sister Mary Goldy of Aurora, CO, and nephew Joshua (Sirina) Banscher of Stafford, VA. He is predeceased by his parents Horace and Theresa Banscher, brothers Robert and Joseph Banscher, and nephew John Banscher.
A public visitation will be held on Friday, September 9 at Lasting Tributes, 814 Bestgate Road, Annapolis MD 21401 from 11 am to 3 pm. A time of Shared Memories will begin at 1 pm for family and friends to share remarks and stories. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, September 10 at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 620 N. Bestgate Road, Annapolis, MD 21401 at 9 am. A green burial graveside service will immediately follow at Bestgate Memorial Park. Both the time of Shared Memories on Friday and the funeral mass on Saturday will be livestreamed for those who are unable to attend.
Memorial donations may be made to St. Mary’s St. Vincent de Paul Society, Wellness House of Annapolis, or any organization of your choice.
What’s your fondest memory of Michael?
What’s a lesson you learned from Michael?
Share a story where Michael's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Michael you’ll never forget.
How did Michael make you smile?
