Michael “Mike” Blankenbaker
October 12th, 1952 - May 4th, 2025
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Mike's Obituary
Michael “Mike” E. Blankenbaker, loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away at his home in St. Joseph, MI on Sunday, May 4, 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on October 12, 1952 in Niles, MI to Jack and Leona (Berends) Blankenbaker, Mike grew up in South Bend, IN where he developed his deep love for friends, family, nature, and sports. Mike graduated from Clay High School in 1971 and went on to attend IUSB. A man of many trades and talents, Mike was a skilled ironworker, followed by a 25-year career at Acme Radiator in Goshen, IN. He spent the last 12 years employed at the Martin’s Supermarket Deli in St. Joseph, MI.
Whether tending to his garden, watching birds at the feeder, or enjoying a Sunday NASCAR race, Mike embraced life with a joyful heart. He loved the simple things -- teeing off on a sunny day, casting a fishing line, rooting for his beloved Notre Dame Fighting Irish and Chicago Cubs, and spending time with friends, family, and his loyal dog, Pearle, who rarely left his side.
Finding true love again, Mike and Terese (Herzog) married in 2013 at St. John’s Catholic Church. He loved his wife, children, siblings, and extended family, celebrating their victories, supporting them through challenges, and always lending a helping hand. He truly enriched their lives. As a grandfather, he found a new kind of happiness-- one filled with laughter and treasured moments.
Mike is survived by his wife Terese Blankenbaker; daughter Allison Gleiss; son Hank (Emily) Gleiss; grandsons C.J. and Matthew Gleiss; brother Steve (Carole) Blankenbaker; sister Michelle (Joe) Vittorie; many loving nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, and beloved dog Pearle.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather Ray Donovan, and first wife Chris.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 AM, Saturday, May 17, 2025 at St. John’s Catholic Church, 600 Columbus, Benton Harbor, MI 49022 with Fr. John Peter Ambrose officiating. Visitation with the family will be held 9:00-10:00 AM at St. John’s Catholic Church and 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM in the Social Hall at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, 555 E. Delaware, Benton Harbor, MI 49022. Inurnment to follow at Calvary Cemetery in Benton Harbor at 2:00 PM.
Mike’s family extends a heartfelt thank you to the many friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers who offered prayers, support, and kindness throughout his journey. A special thank you goes to Dr. Douce and the dedicated Care Team at the Marie Yeager Cancer Center for the compassionate care they provided over the past year. True to his spirit, Mike Fought Like A Champion.
Memorials may be made to SS. John & Bernard Parish or Seven Star Rescue & Sanctuary. Those wishing to share a memory of Michael online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com
Born on October 12, 1952 in Niles, MI to Jack and Leona (Berends) Blankenbaker, Mike grew up in South Bend, IN where he developed his deep love for friends, family, nature, and sports. Mike graduated from Clay High School in 1971 and went on to attend IUSB. A man of many trades and talents, Mike was a skilled ironworker, followed by a 25-year career at Acme Radiator in Goshen, IN. He spent the last 12 years employed at the Martin’s Supermarket Deli in St. Joseph, MI.
Whether tending to his garden, watching birds at the feeder, or enjoying a Sunday NASCAR race, Mike embraced life with a joyful heart. He loved the simple things -- teeing off on a sunny day, casting a fishing line, rooting for his beloved Notre Dame Fighting Irish and Chicago Cubs, and spending time with friends, family, and his loyal dog, Pearle, who rarely left his side.
Finding true love again, Mike and Terese (Herzog) married in 2013 at St. John’s Catholic Church. He loved his wife, children, siblings, and extended family, celebrating their victories, supporting them through challenges, and always lending a helping hand. He truly enriched their lives. As a grandfather, he found a new kind of happiness-- one filled with laughter and treasured moments.
Mike is survived by his wife Terese Blankenbaker; daughter Allison Gleiss; son Hank (Emily) Gleiss; grandsons C.J. and Matthew Gleiss; brother Steve (Carole) Blankenbaker; sister Michelle (Joe) Vittorie; many loving nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, and beloved dog Pearle.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather Ray Donovan, and first wife Chris.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 AM, Saturday, May 17, 2025 at St. John’s Catholic Church, 600 Columbus, Benton Harbor, MI 49022 with Fr. John Peter Ambrose officiating. Visitation with the family will be held 9:00-10:00 AM at St. John’s Catholic Church and 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM in the Social Hall at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, 555 E. Delaware, Benton Harbor, MI 49022. Inurnment to follow at Calvary Cemetery in Benton Harbor at 2:00 PM.
Mike’s family extends a heartfelt thank you to the many friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers who offered prayers, support, and kindness throughout his journey. A special thank you goes to Dr. Douce and the dedicated Care Team at the Marie Yeager Cancer Center for the compassionate care they provided over the past year. True to his spirit, Mike Fought Like A Champion.
Memorials may be made to SS. John & Bernard Parish or Seven Star Rescue & Sanctuary. Those wishing to share a memory of Michael online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com
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