Dale D. Blankenship
Dale D. Blankenship, 92, of Sullivan, MO passed away on Wednesday, December 7, 2022 at Missouri Baptist Hospital – Sullivan.
Dale Dee Blankenship was born on August 20, 1930 in Sullivan, MO to Harvey Lee and Mabel (Mesger) Blankenship. He honorably served his country during the Korean Conflict in the United States Marines from January 15, 1952 to December 23, 1953, Semper Fidelis! Dale remained a true patriot throughout his life and was a lifetime member of the Sullivan VFW Post 3987. Dale was a hard worker and was employed as a truck driver, first by W.H. Powell in Sullivan, and later for Andrew Schaffer Lumber in St. Louis. He retired in 1975. Dale loved old cars and trucks. His 1952 Chevy was a favorite. He also loved Mustangs and Harley-Davidson Motorcycles. Dale never met a stranger and would talk to anyone. He especially liked to eat out with family and friends. Dale adored his family, especially the grandkids and great-grandkids. He was a wonderful Dad, grandpa and great-grandpa and will be forever in the hearts of all who knew him. Dale would always say his goodbye with, “I love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck”.
Dale is survived by one of his children, Michael Blankenship and wife Diane of Bourbon, MO; one brother, Darrell Blankenship of St. Louis, MO; one sister, JoAnn Craig and husband Darrell of Fort Myers, FL; grandchildren: Kevin Hansel, Kelly Hansel, and Melissa Martin; two great-grandchildren, Kelsie Hansel and Kevin Hansel II; along with many more grandkids and great-great-grandkids; his best friend, Glenn Hecht; nieces, nephews, other extended relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by one son, Russell Blankenship; one daughter, Vickie Bizzle; two grandsons, Bradley and Shannon Bizzle; one sister in infancy and three other siblings: June Lawrence, Dwayne Blankenship and his wife, Virginia, and Jewell Blankenship; and one sister-in-law, Rosemary Blankenship.
Funeral Services will be 11:00 AM, Wednesday, December 14, 2022 at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan with Pastor John Blackmore officiating. Interment will follow in Cave Spring Cemetery with full military honors.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 PM, Tuesday, December 13, 2022 at the Eaton Funeral Home.
Online condolences may be shared with Dale’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com
All arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan.