David Tobias Blankenship

David Tobias Blankenship, 96, of Peoria, IL went to be with the Lord on Friday, January 21, 2022 at Unity Point Health-Methodist in Peoria. He was born on December 20, 1925 to Lester Blankenship and Grace (Hasty) Blankenship of East Peoria, Illinois. He married Grace Elizabeth Pethick on July 4, 1946 after returning home from WWII. Together they raised seven children, Sharon (Gary) Moushon of Speer, Illinois, David J. (Mabel) Blankenship of Bellvue, Illinois, Peggy (Jim) Maddox of Farmington, Missouri, Carol (Dennis) Harper of Lewistown, Illinois, Deborah (Patrick) Ruder of Groveland, Illinois, Connie Riley of Alvarado, Texas, and Becky Hoffman of Creve Coeur, Illinois.

David was a WWII Veteran of the U.S. Navy and served on the USS Corundum and USS Arvetta. He retired from Butternut Bakery (Interstate Brands) after reaching retirement age. He was a very hardworking man, faithful husband, and a good father. He loved taking care of his yard, playing cards, and visiting with his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his only son, David J. Blankenship, who was also a Veteran from the Vietnam War, three brothers, and five sisters. He is survived by his loving wife Grace of 75 years, his six daughters, fourteen grandchildren, thirty great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren.

Private funeral services will be provided by Mason Funeral Home in Germantown Hills with a memorial service for family members only on Friday, January 28, 2022. No visitation will be held. Burial will be in Fondulac Township Cemetery in East Peoria, IL.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of David Blankenship to the American Legion Post 89, P.O. Box 364, Metamora, Illinois 61548. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

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