Grover Lee Blankenship

Grover Lee Blankenship, 69, died Sunday, October 31, 2021 under the care of his family and Avita Hospice after a seven-year battle with cancer.



He was born February 7, 1952 in Argo, Kentucky, the youngest child of the late Claude and Stella (Baker) Blankenship. After graduating from Phelps High School in 1970, Grover made his way to Crawford County and began working for Swan Rubber. He married Diane Robinette, who he had known since sharing school bus rides as children, on July 1, 1972. Grover was a machinist and welder and worked for Bucyrus and Galion Iron Works until its closure as Komatsu Dresser.



Grover was a hard-working family man who loved his wife and children with all he had and was willing to help anyone. He and Diane were a model to many, and Grover was a father figure not only to his sons, but also their friends. He started a lot of projects over the years and his family remembers him as an animal and baby “whisperer.” Grover’s big smile, funny stories, and orneriness will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.



Grover is survived by his bride of 49 years, Diane Blankenship; sons, Kevin Lee (Marji) Blankenship and Keith (Sarah) Blankenship; granddaughters, Makayla Lee (Chase) Lance, Mariah (Levi) Spence, Cheyenne Sigman, Kyley Sigman, Evelyn Brennstuhl, and Kate Lee Brennstuhl; three great grandchildren, Riker Lee, Tanner, and Liam; siblings, Willie Blankenship, Cat Bryant, Phyllis (Joe) Sweeney, and William (Gail) Blankenship; along with many nieces and nephews.



In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his precious infant grandson, Henry Logan Blankenship and brothers, Bobby, Joe, and Marvin Blankenship.



All services for Grover will take place on Thursday, November 4 at Wise Funeral Service in Bucyrus. Family will receive friends from 11 am-12:55 pm and the funeral will begin at 1:00 pm with George Lore officiating. Burial will follow in Brokensword Cemetery.



Memorial donations can be made payable to a charity of the donor’s choice and given through the funeral home. Memories and photos can be shared on Grover’s Tribute Wall.