Charles Blankenship

Charles R. Blankenship, 77, of Ashland, died Monday, February 11, 2008 at Samaritan Regional Health System. Born January 3, 1931 in Jackson County, West Virginia, he was the son of the late Howard and Mae Bowles Blankenship. He retired from the Smurfit Stone Container Company. He was a member of St. Luke's Lutheran Church where he was a past member of Church council, usher, and on building maintenance. He was a veteran of U.S. Army, serving during the Korean War. Charles enjoyed woodworking and being outside tending to his lawn and garden. He loved to joke with his family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jane Smith Blankenship, whom he married Nov. 9, 1963; a daughter and son-in-law, Dawn and Roger Cook of Marysville; two grandchildren, Samantha Huff of Columbus and Charles Huff of Camp Lejeune, NC; two sisters, Viola Veach of Loudonville and Helen Swift of Bucyrus; five nieces and nephews; several cousins from West Virginia; and special friends, Judy and Earl Washburn, Curtis and Carolyn Vandine, all of Mansfield, Shirley Hershner and Judy Holderbaum, both of Bellville.

Friends may call from 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, February 13 at the Diamond Street Home of Wappner Funeral Directors and also one hour prior to funeral services on Thursday at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Stephen Patrick officiating. Burial will follow in Franklin Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mission Society.