By George Young

This is a series of articles profiling some of the residents who live and work in the South Mountain/Laveen Villages.  In keeping with the original format of the Villager to only print the positive, we will attempt to acknowledge some of the great folks that have contributed so much to our lives and are hopefully role models for all of us.

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Mr. Joe Banks III

I have the privilege of having a friend that displays the utmost in integrity, respect and love for his family and others.  Unlike myself, this person was born and raised in Phoenix.  He is a father, husband, grandfather, mentor and an all around great guy.  His dedication to making South Mountain Village a great place to live, play and work is unsurpassed by his love for children.  He is a member of the South Mountain Village Clean & Beautiful, The Target Area “B” Citizens Action Committee, (former member) Rio Salado Citizens Action Committee, The South Mountain & Laveen Village Chamber of Commerce and more.  His name is Mr. Joe Banks III.

Mr. Joe Banks III has been married to Dee, his wife of forty-five years.  Dee is also a wonderful and caring person, as in many households she is the glue that holds the family together.  Not only is she a great cook, but also creates works of art with her cake decorating.  He has two children, Joe IV and Dean his youngest.  Dean works with his father at Ironco. Inc.  Located at 1029 East Broadway Road.  One of Joe’s deepest wishes is to have grandchildren.  He currently has one granddaughter, Lilly; needless to say she is the apple of his eye.  Joe loves children.  I do not believe he has ever met a child he did not like.  Joe is also involved with the Roosevelt School Districts Rosa Linda School   He spends many hours doing things for kids.  He has been a contributor to the Villager for five years with his great articles to kids.

Joe has had many occupations in his life, but the consistent one has been one of blacksmith (a dying trade in our country).  He is one of the most creative and artistic people I know.  It is amazing what he can design and create out of metal.  He is meticulous in everything he does; he holds himself to a very high standard when it comes to constructing a product.  One of his greatest attributes is his willingness to help people.  There are hundreds of people in our Village and valley wide that he has built or constructed something for.  Some they paid for, some not.

There is a lighter side to Joe.  He loves a practical joke.  He showed up at Board meeting one day dressed like a woman.  His plan was to set a new fad to replace people from wearing baseball caps backwards, sideward etc.  Needless to say it never caught on and people still wear baseball caps in all directions.  I am sorry I cannot reveal many of his jokes, it would offend some people and some would be downright mad.

I am truly blessed, proud and fortunate to have Joe as my friend and may God Bless Mr. Joe Banks III and his Family and God Bless America. and God Bless the South Mountain/Laveen Village’s.