Donald L. Banschbach, 86

DOVER - Donald L. Banschbach, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, age 86, of Dover, passed away on Oct. 7, 2009. Donald was born on May 17, 1923, in Harrison, Ohio, to Louis and Kathryn Banschbach. He attended Ohio State University and then served in the 751st Army Air Corp Band during World War II. After the war, he continued his studies at the American Conservatory of Music where he received degrees in trombone performance and music theory. He received the Coat of Arms for his studies of Thomistic Philosophy and continued his doctoral studies at the University of Maryland. Music was a central theme throughout Donald's life. He was an accomplished trombone player holding positions in the Chicago Civic orchestra, the Delaware Symphony, and numerous ensembles. He also served as the director of the Illinois National Guard's 44th Infantry Band. Donald was a lifelong music educator. Prior to moving to Delaware in 1960, he held positions at Springfield College, Delmar College, University of South Carolina, and the University of Charleston. After moving to Delaware, he continued his research on music education techniques for elementary school children and through teaching positions in the Caesar Rodney and Lake Forest school districts, brought the joy of music to thousands of children throughout Kent County Delaware for 30 years. In addition, he served as the Research Chairman for the Delaware Music Educators Association, spoke nationally about his teaching curriculum, and wrote numerous articles for international music journals. In 1978 he founded the Brass Collegium Musicum and in 1988 The Capitol Brass, a brass quintet that has performed throughout the region for the past 20 years. His strong faith was evident throughout his life. Donald was an active member of Holy Cross Catholic Church, and served as a Eucharistic Minister for the parish community for approximately 25 years. He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Joyce; his sister, Marianna Banschbach of Dover; his three sons, Gregory Banschbach and his wife Jackie of East Meadow, N.Y., Mark Banschbach and his wife Sheri of Tampa, Fla., and Chris Banschbach and his wife Janet of Middletown; and four grandchildren, Lauren, Alexis, Jessica, and Matthew. Friends may call on the family at their home in Dover on Sunday, Oct. 11, between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Visitation will be held Monday starting at 10 a.m. at Holy Cross Church, South State St., Dover, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. followed by interment at Sharon Hill Memorial Park, Dover. Arrangements are by Michael J. Ambruso Funeral Director, Inc. Condolences may be forwarded and guest book signed via www.ambruso.com.