Patrick A. Blankenship

Patrick A. Blankenship, 58, of Sullivan, MO, affectionately known as Pat, passed away on Monday, December 25, 2023, in Houston, TX, concluding a life marked by kindness, generosity, and an unwavering love for his family and friends. Born on August 3, 1965, in Sullivan to Gene and Linda (Uram) Blankenship, Pat's early years were spent in the embrace of nature, fostering a passion that would last a lifetime.

Pat attended school at Holy Martyrs of Japan grade school and continued through to Sullivan High School, where he graduated with the class of 1983. His childhood was characterized by a deep involvement with the Future Farmers of America (FFA), where he cultivated his lifelong hobbies of hunting and fishing. Pat carried the lessons and values from these early experiences throughout his life, shaping the man he would become.

Professionally, Pat's work ethic and dedication were evident from his early days working for Schatz Underground and later with Dick Berti at CEC Electric. His career took a significant leap forward when, after attaining his Master Electrician license, he joined the Chrysler Corporation in 1999. A decade later, Pat's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish PB Electric in Sullivan, where he applied his expertise. Pat later worked shortly at Trident Solutions, Inc. until health challenges prompted an early retirement in 2022.

Pat's personal life was enriched when he married the love of his life Pamela Miller on January 26, 1993, a union through which he inherited his beloved children: John, Vanessa, and Brittany. Family was the cornerstone of Pat's world, and he embraced every moment with them with open arms and a heart full of joy.

An ardent lover of the outdoors, Pat's happiest moments were often found on float trips with family and friends, boat rides on the river, fishing in Poor Boys bass tournaments, hunting up north at the Schmitt farm, and enjoying family excursions to Clearwater. Over the years, he also became an avid golfer, finding peace and camaraderie on the greens. It was clear that if you were a friend to Pat, you were considered family. He lived life to the fullest, never missing an opportunity to create lasting memories with those he held dear.

Known lovingly as "Poppy," Pat was cherished by his grandchildren, with whom he shared many joyous days hunting, playing games, fishing, and attending countless sporting events. Poppy Pat could always be found cheering on the sidelines of a football game or the edge of the lake fishing with his grandchildren. His presence was a source of warmth and happiness, and his legacy will be cherished through the countless stories and memories he leaves behind.

Pat Blankenship's character was the epitome of friendliness, his actions a testament to his generosity, and his demeanor a reflection of his kind spirit. He approached life with an open heart and was always ready to lend a hand or share a moment of laughter. Pat's big heart and infectious smile touched many, and he will be remembered fondly for his ability to make everyone around him feel like family.

He is survived by his loving wife, Pam; three children:  John Breen and wife, Jaqueline of Washington, MO, Vanessa Breen and significant other, Shane Nolen and Brittany Breen, all of Sullivan; 7 grandchildren: Braxton, Olivia, John Mason, Eliza, Blaire, Briar, and Jacob; his father, Gene Blankenship; three siblings, Anna Blankenship, Michael Blankenship and wife, Tricia all of Sullivan and Wayne Blankenship and wife, Christy of Leslie, MO; parents-in-law, Don and Norlene Miller of Sullivan; three brothers-in-law:  Scotty Miller, Junior Miller and wife, Lesa, and Rick Miller all of Sullivan; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Linda.

Services will be 10 AM, Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at Temple Baptist Church in Sullivan with Pastor Scott Perry officiating.  Interment will follow at Holy Martyrs Cemetery of Japan, MO.

Visitation will be 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Tuesday, January 2, 2024, at Temple Baptist Church.

Memorial contributions may be made in Pat’s memory to the Team Kaden Foundation.

Friends may share condolences online with Pat’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan, MO.