Bret Wilbanks

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Bret Damon Wilbanks, 56, of Anderson, Missouri, passed away suddenly of natural causes at his residence on Saturday, August 17, 2024. He was born on April 28, 1968, in Canton, Ohio, to the union of the late Damon and Jacqueline (Dillon) Wilbanks.

Raised in the town of his birth, Bret was a graduate of McKinley Senior High School, class of 1986. His formative years in Canton shaped a man who was as resilient as he was kind-hearted, traits that would endear him to all who knew him. Bret spent the majority of his life in the Canton and Cedar Rapids area. 

He worked at Casey's General Store in Cedar Rapids and later, as a delivery driver for FedEx.

Bret's interests and hobbies painted the picture of a man who loved to engage with the world around him. An avid traveler, he seized every opportunity to explore new places and create lasting memories. His love for singing Karaoke was well-known, often bringing joy and laughter to gatherings. A lifelong fan, Bret's enthusiasm for the Cleveland Browns and the Ohio State Buckeyes was infectious, and game days were always a special occasion in the Wilbanks household.

Family was the cornerstone of Bret's life. He is survived by his wife, Kathy Wilbanks of the home; two children, Deanna Keenan and husband, Mark, of San Jose, California and Bryan Wilbanks of Canton, Ohio; two stepchildren, James Mazzole of Lockport, New York and Sheena Mazzole of Rochester, New York; eight grandchildren; his twin brother, Brad Wilbanks and wife, Carrie, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; two nephews, Joshua and James Wilbanks; a niece, Elizabeth O’Donnell and husband, Corey; as well as a host of other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Karen Helsdon.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of the Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.