Stanley Banas

Stanley Banas, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, left us on September 29, 2026, while doing what he loved most: playing golf. Born on January 7, 1947, in Germany, Stan lived a life full of passion, humor, and dedication, leaving an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to have known him. Stan's early years were shaped by his mother, Waleria Banas, and stepfather, Dmitry Utkin, who instilled in him values of hard work and resilience. After graduating from Bishop Turner High School in 1964, Stan embarked on an educational journey that spanned several years, finally earning a Bachelor's degree from the University at Buffalo. His academic pursuits did not stop there; he went on to achieve a Master's degree and met his second wife, Gena Goosman, while attending Buffalo State College. Stan's professional life was as varied as it was fulfilling. He dedicated 14 years to Westinghouse, during which time he honed not only his work skills but also his golf game during employment gaps. A man of many talents, Stan eventually took a civil service exam that led to a 22-year career at Erie County Social Services. Known as the "big mean guy on the 4th floor," he approached his work with the same tenacity and dedication that he displayed on the golf course. An avid golfer, Stan's love for the sport was legendary. He spent his youth mastering the game at Grandview Golf Course in Angola and was a founding member of the Ralph Beagle Golf League. His Mondays were sacred, reserved for golfing at Grover Cleveland Golf Course, where he was a proud member and past President of the Bison Golf League. Even in his later years, Stan's passion for the game never waned, as he continued to enjoy rounds at the Hamburg Golf Course. Stan's personal life was rich and full of love. He was predeceased by his first wife, Elaine Weaver Dates Banas, and is survived by his devoted wife, Gena Goosman. Stan's legacy lives on through his two step-sons, Michael Dates (Maryann) and Andrew Goosman (Katy Powers), as well as his six grandchildren and two great-grandsons. His siblings, John Utkin, Dmitry Utkin (Trudy), and Maryann Barcomb (Charles), along with many nieces, nephews, and cherished golf partners, will forever remember his spirited presence and endearing sense of humor. Stan was a man of strong opinions, particularly when it came to politics. He was never shy about expressing his views, often humorously muttering "asshole" whenever the name Trump was mentioned. A celebration of Stan's life will be held at the Hamburg Golf Course before a shotgun start, a fitting tribute to a man who found joy and camaraderie on the fairways. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Stan's memory. His passion for life, dedication to family, and love of golf will be remembered by all who knew him.