Clifford “Cliff” Banks

Clifford "Cliff" Banks of Richfield, MN passed away July 20, 2026 at the age of 79. He will be dearly missed.

Clifford W. Banks ("Cliff") was born in St. Paul, Minnesota, and raised in the historic Rondo neighborhood, a community he carried in his heart and held deep pride in throughout his life. He graduated from St. Paul Central High School with the Class of 1964.

At 18, Cliff enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, proudly serving his country through two tours of duty, earning a Purple Heart, and achieving the rank of Sergeant. Following his military service, Cliff spent two decades as a dedicated aircraft inspector with Northwest Airlines/Delta Airlines, where he was an active member of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union). He later continued his career as a program analyst at Data Center until his retirement.

A brilliant problem solver, Cliff thrived on helping others. There was rarely a challenge he couldn't overcome; he often designed and built custom tools from scratch to fix complex aircraft issues that stumped others. He found great joy in the simple things of life. He loved spending time outdoors hunting and fishing, listening to jazz, creating multimedia art, and traveling, especially his annual trips to Jamaica. Above all else, Cliff cherished his family. He willingly made countless sacrifices and adjustments throughout his life to ensure those he loved were always safe, cared for, and provided for.

Cliff was preceded in death by his parents, Blanche and Charles Banks.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon Banks; his four children: Sean Banks, Charles Banks, Katik Porter, and Cristian Banks; his sister, Charlene Banks; his brother, John Banks; his nephew, Cliff Bentley; his niece, Dawn Bentley; and a host of beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Cliff's presence, wisdom, and warm spirit will be deeply missed by all who loved him.

The service on August 12th will be livestreamed. For information on how to watch or questions regarding the livestream, please reach out to Katik Porter at katik.porter@gmail.com.

Flowers May Be Sent To:
Morris Nilsen Funeral Chapel
6527 Portland Avenue
Richfield, MN 55423

Condolences & Cards May Be Sent To:
The Family of Clifford W. Banks
c/o D.R. Bentley
3871 Heather Drive
Eagan, MN 55112