Fred Harvey Blankenship, born on July 25, 1942, in Springfield, Illinois, to the late Bessie M. Blankenship and the late Ora W. Blankenship Sr., passed away at age 76 on April 16, 2019, at St. John's Hospital.

Fred was the loving husband of the late Nancy Ann Blankenship. They were married for 52 years until her passing in 2018. He proudly served in the United States Navy from 1960 to 1966. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and riding motorcycles. He also enjoyed watching western shows, country music, and taking trips to Branson, Missouri. Fred had a fierce love for his family and will be fondly remembered as a humorous and loving husband, father and grandfather. He always had a smile on his face and a great story to tell. His wife, children, and grandchildren were the pride and joy of his life.

He was preceded in death by nine sisters, five brothers, and his beloved dog, Sammy.

Fred is survived by his sons, Braderick A. Blankenship (Cindy Gallant) of Loami, IL and Brian K. Blankenship (Patricia Blankenship) of Tucson, AZ.; daughter, Tammy L. Walsh (Michele Walsh) of Patchogue, NY., seven grandchildren; Brad Blankenship Jr. (Petersburg, IL.), Ashley Derby (Sarasota, FL.), Ryan Moore (Tucson, AZ.), Rachel Stillman (Phoenix, AZ.), Melissa Blankenship (Loami, IL.), James Blankenship (Virden, IL), Sara Blankenship (Tucson, AZ.) and fifteen great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his adored dogs, Buddy and Sugar.

Friends and family members may attend the celebration of life on Saturday, April 20 at 12:00 p.m. at 103 W. Elm St., New Berlin, Illinois