Gilbert Christopher Banks

Gilbert Christopher Banks, age 59, of Reno, Nevada, passed away at St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center on February 18, 2021. Gilbert was born in Stockton, California on November 29, 1961 to William Banks and Mary (Pogie) Fontes Banks. Gilbert was Salinan Indian and his mother was part of the Indian community which he attended Pow Wows all through his life. Gilbert loved the water and was on a diving team in his teen years up through high school where he graduated from Edison High School. He broke his nose a few times tucking so hard while diving. He became a California State Diving Champion. Later in life he taught diving. After high school, he went into the military and served in the Navy for 4 years on the ship, the USS Bainbridge. He liked to work with his hands and became a carpenter and was a great one for 25 years. He was proud of being a home-builder and his talent showed in his craftsmanship. He also taught Diving at Delta College in San Joaquin, California. He was always the life of the party and was never shy. He would start a conversation with anyone he met. Gilbert could make everyone laugh because he was a jokester. If you were having a bad day he would make you laugh. As jovial as he was, Gilbert was also very protective of people he loved and cared about. Family and friends were his entire world and he loved tossing the football around with them any chance he had. Gilbert was athletic and loved the outdoors. He loved fishing, golfing, exploring nature, and swimming and diving off anything he could find. Gilbert lived in Stockton most of his life until he moved to Reno, Nevada with his girlfriend Tammy in 2016. He is preceded in death by his brother Joseph (Steve) Banks, brother Michael Banks, Mother Mary (Pogie) Fuentes Banks. Shortly after Gilbert passed away, his girlfriend, Tammy Wilson passed away in Reno. He is survived by his Brothers, Will Banks (Sierra) of Sutter Creek, California, John Banks of Sacramento, California, David Banks of Visalia, California, Sisters, Jennifer Hernandez (Jesse) of Stockton, California, Wendy Garcia(Carlos) of Twin Falls, Idaho. Son Joseph Aquino, Port Orchard, Washington and grandchildren Haylia, Xavior, Deago, Raelynn, Micah all from Port Orchard, Washington and numerous nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Gilbert’s life will be held at a later date in Jackson, CA. Inurnment will be held following services in Jackson where Gilbert will be laid to rest with full Naval military honors. Those wishing to share memories and condolences may do so on Gilbert’s memorial webpage at www.magicvalleyfuneralhome.com.