Werner Anton Banz

Werner A. Banz, 95 of Rockford died peacefully at Presence Saint Anne Center in Rockford on January 2, 2023 which would have been his 58th wedding anniversary to his wife, Laraine. Werner was born on September 29, 1927, in Eau Claire Wisconsin. Werner grew up and attended school in Switzerland. During his childhood, the family made many trips back and forth to the states. He served in the U. S. Army as a cook during the Korean War. Werner eventually settled in Rockford, working factory jobs. Later, Werner started his own coin-operated laundromat, Sav-A-Day which he ran for over 30 years.

Werner met Laraine in 1960 and were married in 1965. Werner and Laraine enjoyed working together running their business along with several residential and commercial properties. Werner’s interests were mostly business related and in investment properties. He loved negotiating deals and offering business advice, especially with his son, Mark.

Werner and his wife Laraine also enjoyed traveling. Their retirement years were enjoyed at their condo in Boca Raton, Florida. Werner will be remembered as a kind father, uncle and grandfather to all that knew him. Werner is survived by his son, Mark (Jill) Banz, and granddaughter, Marisa Banz. Werner is preceded in death by his wife, Laraine (Sackerson) Banz; his parents, Anton and Marie (Dillier) Banz, and siblings, Arthur, Joe, Tony Banz and Marlies (Banz) Hadley along with several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday January 14, 2023, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, IL, with visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m. Burial in Scandinavian Cemetery. To share memories or express condolences, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com.