John Blankman

JOHN BLANKMAN

Our beloved father, Opa, friend and mentor to so many, left the physical constraints of his body on Sunday, June 13, 2004, to walk again free of pain and suffering, with those who have gone before him. John helped many young people live happier lives because of his support and wisdom.

John was born August 11, 1921 in Krabbendam Gem Warmenhuizen, the Netherlands to Klaas Blankman and Maartje Biersteker. He was second in a family of seven, his sisters and brothers, Guertje, Klaas, Pieter Cornelis, Gerrit Willem, Greta Annie, Maria Jannetje, and Abraham. He married Maria (Mario) Van Gulik October 18, 1946, the love of his life; they were married for 42 years. His children, Farrin'ga and Lothar were born in Holland, and the family immigrated to the United States in January, 1950. In America two more sons were born, Jerry and John.

John made his living and found great joy in farming and managing cattle or dairy herds. He managed large ranches for the LDS church welfare system and others, first in Star Valley, Wyoming, and then in Park City, West Jordan, Kaysville and Layton, Utah. He was an expert in agriculture, animal husbandry, and water management. John loved Amaryllis, African Violets and even now there is a new crop of tomatoes growing to maturity, carefully cultivated from seed.

John is survived by his children, fourteen grandchildren five great grandchildren and his sister Maria and brother Bram in Holland. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mario, three brothers, two sisters and two grandchildren.

The greatest love and devotion has been shown by his son, Jerry, who has cared for John every day for the last several years. A special thanks is given to JohnAAs special friend, Arlene, who made it possible for him to laugh often and helped him visit friends and places from his stay in America in the past year. A great thanks also goes to Stoney, Mandy and all those who helped at Applegate Home Health Care, whose care enabled him to remain at home. Thanks also to all who have helped us over the past weeks.
VisitationMyers Mortuary of Layton
250 N. Fairfield Rd.
Layton, UT 84041
June 16, 2004
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
ServiceMyers Mortuary of Layton
250 N. Fairfield Rd.
Layton, UT 84041
June 17, 2004
1:00 PM
CemeterySalt Lake City Cemetery
200 N St. E
Salt Lake City, UT 84103
June 17, 2004