Larry Bruce Blankenbaker, 74, of Galena, IL, unexpectedly passed away at home on Saturday, June 1, 2024. A celebration of life will be held from 1 to 4 PM, on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at the Galena Elks Lodge, Galena. In keeping with his wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family. He was born on August 1, 1949, in Rensselaer, IN, the son of LaVern and Jean (Schuringa) Blankenbaker. Larry graduated from DeMotte High School, DeMotte, IN, with the class of 1967. He went on to graduate from Valparaiso University in 1971. Larry married Mary Dietrich on March 25, 1972, at St. Matthews Cathedral, South Bend, IN. He was a Junior High School science teacher and High School football and wrestling coach for North Judson High School, IN. Larry worked as an emergency room technician at Community Hospital in Indianapolis, IN. He also worked for 3M and WL Gore. In 1986, he and his wife purchased Benjamin’s restaurant and bar, Galena, and retired after twenty-eight years of operation in 2014. Larry was an EMT for Paramount Dubuque, the Galena ambulance, and a paramedic for the Elizabeth ambulance. He enjoyed sports, woodworking, and gardening. Larry was a Rotary, Lions Club, Eagles, and Galena Elks Lodge member. He was active in the Galena community and co-sponsored the Saint Patrick’s Day parade. He is survived by his wife, Mary, two sons, Michael (Angela) and Andy, three grandchildren, Benjamin Blankenbaker, Alexa and Bryce Baker, and Melissa Knotts, mother of Benjamin. He was preceded in death by his parents. The family wishes to thank the Elizabeth and Galena ambulance service, Scales Mound Fire Department, and the Galena Territory Security.
Larry B. Blankenbaker
Sorry for your loss – nice guy – fun to be around at their bar – good times !!!
Sorry for your loss – nice man – fun to be around at their best / good times
I am missing a great friend and the world is missing a great person.
Fond remembrance of Larry on Level 1 ski slope at Special Olympics State winter games then gathering at Benjamin’s after a long day of competition. Deep appreciation to you both for helping our son find his way after his service to our country by employing and housing him.
Mary and family
So sorry for your loss. Larry was the sweetest guy. He was all about Galena and the parades and Benjamin’s was a great place to get together with friends. May be rest in peace.
Most sincere condolences Mary from your classmates MHS Class of 1967
Jack and I send our sincere sympathy to you Mary, and your family. There are no words, just our prayers for comfort after this sudden loss. God bless you.
So sorry for loss Mary ! Prayers
Mary, Melissa, Ben, and family, our thoughts and prayers are with you all. He was an amazing guy who lives on through his family.
So very sorry for your loss. Larry will be missed. A great friend to many.
Sincere sympathy to the entire family.
With deepest sympathy, 💐 continued prayers 4u n family!! God speed !!!
So sad to learn of your loss.
My thoughts and prayers to the Blankenbaker family. I have so many wonderful memories of Larry, especially on St. Patrick’s day. Both Mary and Larry have always been wonderful to the “Murphy” Clan. I am so very sorry for this sudden loss of an extraordinary person. Please know I am thinking of your family and sending my love.
Susie (Murphy) Roth
Dear Mary, Benjamin and Michael,
We were sadden to hear of Larry’s passing. Sending prayers to you for comfort, strength and peace in this time of sadness. Larry is a long time friend and he will be missed.
Love, Ralph and Ardy Myers
So much love to your family Mary. Larry was such a great part of my life and so sad to hear he left us so quickly. All my sympathies to you all, I wish I knew the right words to say. I will miss you my friend 🙏✝️
My deepest sympathies to Mary and the entire family on Larry’s passing.
Stan and Janet Zeck, 1967 classmate, church member together growing up, and friend.
Dear Mary, Andy and Mike,
My heart is with you…
God bless Larry, he was loved dearly.
Thank you Larry, for the good example you set in life and as EMT/ Paramedic
Sorry to hear of Larry’s passing, aways enjoyed the tequila selection at Benjamin’s.
My sincerest condolences to your family for the loss of your loved one. I got to know Mike and Andy when E&R Karoke would play at Benjamin’s. Prayers for comfort during this difficult time.
Sending our sympathy to all with the blessing of precious memories!
In true friendship,
Mike and Deb Felderman
Mary & family – Our thoughts are with you. Larry will be sorely missed in our community.
Mary, Michael & Andy:
I am so sorry to hear of Larry’s sudden passing. Mary, I also just lost my husband, George, so I know how difficult this must be for you and your family. I will miss seeing you and Larry shopping at Walmart which we seemed to do at the same time so often! My sincerest condolences.
Kathy (Puszczewicz) Bookless
Mary, Michael & Andy:
I am so sorry to hear of Larry’s sudden passing. Mary, I also just lost my husband, George, so I know how difficult this must be for you and your family. I will miss seeing you and Larry shopping at Walmart which we seemed to do at the same time so often! My sincerest condolences.
Kathy (Puszczewicz) Bookless