Ernest Blankenship

Ernest Blankenship, 89, of Lima, passed away on March 13, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on June 26, 1936, in Dickenson County, Virginia, to Rell and Daisy (Harless) Blankenship, Ernest married the love of his life, Rometa (Hull) Blankenship, on June 1, 1957. She preceded him in death in 2013. He worked at Ford Motor Company for more than 40 years before retiring. Ernest found great joy in the outdoors, whether hunting, fishing, tending his yard, or simply being in nature. He was also a skilled mechanic who loved working on cars and an exceptionally talented woodworker. Above all, he cherished time with his family. He attended every family gathering and could always be counted on to lend a helping hand. His kind and generous spirit touched everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his son, David (Rita Fricke) Blankenship; daughter, Pam Bowers; son, Duane (Tracey) Blankenship; grandchildren, Christie (Bill) Howard, Ashley Blankenship, Amber (Brodey) Williams, Tony (Jennifer) Bowers, Blaine (Chelsie) Blankenship, Kaylie Conrad, Kelsey (Justin) Weil, and Cody Conrad; great-grandchildren, Olivia, Sophia, Raelynn, Ryleigh, and Wrenlee; brother, Keith (Paula) Blankenship; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Donald Blankenship, Fred Blankenship, Faye Jones, Doug Blankenship, Geraldine Wrobeliski, Harold Blankenship, Bonnie Gardner, Connie Lane, and Kenny Blankenship.