Michael Bryan Blanton

Michael was born on December 31, 1953, in Wichita, Kansas, to Marilyn Dowling and Bill Blanton Sr. He graduated from Magnet Cove High School in May 1971, and later earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of South Florida in June 1976.

While working at a local Florida car dealership to support himself through college, Michael discovered a passion for the automotive industry. Though he had originally planned to pursue a career in law, he chose instead to follow that passion, launching a nearly 40-year career in the car business that took him to Southern California and beyond.

After retiring in 2016, Michael embraced life on the road, traveling across the country to spend time with family and friends. He lived life to the fullest and was always up for an adventure—whether it was fishing in Alaska, skiing the mountains of Big Bear, water skiing on Corona Lake, deep sea fishing, driving dune buggies in the desert, or playing basketball.

Michael had a lifelong love of cars, both old and new—especially Mercedes-Benz, which he joked were meant for him because they bore his initials. He was also an avid sports fan and a dedicated follower of the Los Angeles Lakers. In quieter moments, he enjoyed sitting on his front porch, listening to the Beatles.

Michael was a beloved brother, uncle, cousin, and friend whose warmth and humor touched many lives. Friends and family were always Michael’s Pride and Joy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marilyn and Kingsley Dowling and Bill Blanton Sr.; his brothers James, Donald, Nick, and Bill Blanton Jr.; his sister Vikki Arneault; and his nephews Ezekiel Blanton and Josh Blanton.

Michael is survived by his brothers Rick (Kay) Blanton, Duke (Marylyn) Dowling, Matthew (Ana) Dowling, and Fred; his nephews Elijah Blanton, Kennan Dowling, Asa Dowling, Gabriel Dowling, and Jonathan (Tricia) Arneault; his nieces Charity (Zach) Borg, Jennifer (Robert) Vining, Tori (Ryan) Jaquess, Christian (Ernest) Rivera, Natalie (Jacob) Eddings, Tammy Flack, Jodi (Matt) Herrington, Alicia Blanton and Jennifer (Terry) Lott; as well as numerous extended family members and many dear friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held in his honor on Friday, August 15, at 6:00 p.m. at Gross Funeral Home, 120 Wrights Street, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71913.