James Banek, 77 of Daytona Beach, Florida, passed away August 29. Originally from Utica, New York and a former resident of Hialeah, FL, where he taught physical education at Meadowlane Elementary for 34 years. After retiring from the school system, Jim moved to Burnsville, NC. Where he enjoyed the beautiful view from his log cabin home. Returning home to Florida in 2011, he and his wife of 45 years, Mary-Lee, settled in Daytona Beach.

Jim fought a valiant battle with cancer for several years and refused to give up until the very end.

James graduated from Whitesboro Central School in 1958 where he played varsity basketball and baseball. James was a graduate of St. Bonaventure University in Olean, NY, and also held a Master's Degree in Education at the University of Miami. Throughout his life, Jim kept fit running, swimming, lifting weights and spearfishing at every opportunity.

Because of the strong bonds Jim made with students spanning 4 decades at Meadowlane Elementary, he was nominated and selected to be part of the Olympic Torch relay in 1996.

James was preceded by his mother Mae and is father Jacob. In addition to his wife, Mary-Lee, James is survived by his son Michael Banek (Amanda), three grandchildren, Brady, 8, Riley, 6, and Delaney 1, of West Palm Beach, FL, brother and sister-in-law- Fred and Janice Krumm of Ormond Beach, niece Debra Myers (Matthew) and their two children Emilyn and Skyler of Orlando, FL. In addition to family members, Mr. Banek is also survived by countless friends and former students that have remained close to Mr. B throughout the years.

A celebration of James Banek's life will take place at Lohman's Funeral Home in Ormond Beach, FL, on Saturday, September 2, at 12:00PM with a visitation at 11:00AM.

In addition, a celebration of his life will take place in West Palm Beach, FL on September 10, at 12:00PM at the residence of Mickey and Mandy Banek.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Florida Hospital Hospice Care of Daytona Beach, Florida, The American Cancer Society, or the Meadowlane Elementary Physical Education Department in Hialeah, FL.