James ‘Andy’ Blankenship

Andy Blankenship, age 72, of Sullivan, MO, passed away Sunday, September 26, 2021 at his home, surrounded by his family.

James Franklin Blankenship, known as Andy, was born on November 15, 1948 in Washington, MO, to Forrest Leslie and Rose K. (Strothkamp) Blankenship. He grew up and attended Spring Bluff Grade School and Warrenton Seminary School before graduating from Sullivan High School, class of 1965. Andy was united in marriage to Joette Marie Donner on September 22, 1995. Through the years, he was employed by Meramec Mining Company, Protec as a pipefitter, Maupin Asphalt, and eventually owned and operated his own backhoe business.

Andy enjoyed raising and riding horses, fishing, antiquing, and cook outs with his family. He loved his family immensely and enjoyed spending time with them. Andy was of the Catholic faith.

Andy is survived by his wife, Joette Blankenship; three children: Gene Blankenship, Renee Blunkall and husband Dustin, and Shane Blankenship, all of Sullivan, MO; eight grandchildren: Ashton Williamson, Jarren Blankenship, Payton Sherman, Gabby Sherman, Kyle Blankenship, Mariah Blankenship, Jason Blankenship and Justin Blankenship; four great-grandchildren: Sawyer, Juniper, Harper and Reaghan; one brother, Larry Blankenship and wife Betty of Sullivan, MO; two sisters, Peggy Davis and husband Bob, and Marilyn Landwehr, all of Sullivan, MO; numerous nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Forrest and Rose Blankenship; three brothers: Donald, William and Robert Blankenship; and two sisters, Norma Jean Biehl and Patricia Blum.

Cremation arrangements have taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Online condolences may be shared with Andy’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

All arrangements were under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan.