William R. Blankenship, October 30, 1936 - February 8, 2026.
William R. Blankenship, 89, of Michigan City, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at Silver Birch of Michigan City.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026, at Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel, 418 Washington St., Michigan City, Indiana, Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery, Michigan City, Indiana. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service on Friday at the funeral chapel.
William was born October 30, 1936, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Lawrence and Violet (Randolph) Blankenship, who preceded him in death.
On April 7, 1956, in Michigan City, Indiana, he married the love of his life, Marilyn Kay (Fellows) Blankenship. They shared 45 devoted years of marriage before her passing on December 5, 2001. Later, he was blessed to find love again and married Jeanene Aukerman Blankenship, who also preceded him in death.
He is survived by his four daughters, Kathy (Jerome) Thompson, Debbie (Todd) Winski, Sue (Bart) Malicoat, and Cindy (Steve) Steffey; two stepdaughters, Kim (Tom) and Kendra (Brad); two stepsons, Kevin (Jenny) and Kraig; 13 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and 5 great-great- grandchildren; along with several nieces and nephews who will cherish his memory.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wives, Marilyn Kay Blankenship and Jeanene Aukerman Blankenship; his sister, Jerre Deutscher; his brother, Bob Blankenship; and three great-granddaughters.
William graduated from Elston High School in 1955 and proudly served his country in the United States Navy until his honorable discharge in 1962. He spent many years working as a truck driver, providing faithfully for his family through hard work and dedication.
After retirement, he and Jeanene made their home in Fort Myers, Florida, living in Orange Harbor, where they enjoyed traveling and spending time together in their RV. He especially loved the open road, good music, and was a longtime fan of Willie Nelson.
Above all, William was a devoted father and family man. He had a warm, easygoing way about him and never met a stranger. His steady presence, quiet strength, and generous heart will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Memorial contributions may be made to the donor’s choice.
To sign the guest book and leave condolences, please visit www.otthaverstock.com.
