Jerry L. Blacksten

Jerry L. Blacksten, 89, of Michigan City, Indiana, went to be with his wife, Nancy, and with Jesus on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at 8:50 a.m. at Aperion Care in Michigan City, Indiana.

A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Faith City Assembly of God, 1314 S. Woodland Ave., Michigan City, Indiana, with Pastor Geoff Safirt officiating. Visitation will be from 12 p.m. until the time of service on Saturday at the church. Burial will be held at a later date at Swan Lake Memorial Gardens, Michigan City, Indiana. The Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel, 418 Washington St., Michigan City, Indiana, is handling arrangements.

He was born March 11, 1936, in Nelsonville, Ohio, to the late Harley and Dora (Lehman) Blacksten. On May 9, 1958, in Michigan City, Indiana, he married Nancy (Pence) Blacksten, who preceded him in death on Nov. 14, 2011.

Surviving are two sons, Kevin (Kelli) Blacksten of Michigan City, Indiana, and Keith (Lisa) Blacksten of Michigan City, Indiana; five grandchildren, Jeremy, Jonathan, Kreg, Paige and Kory; and eight great-grandchildren, Natalie, Stella, Yuri, Lukas, Sarah, Aiden, Flynn and Alexia. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; three sisters, Emma Jean Blacksten, Martha Griffin and Irma Blacksten; and four brothers, James Blacksten, Bob Blacksten, Harry Blacksten and John Blacksten.

Jerry served in the United States Army from 1958 to 1961 and was honorably discharged. He later worked for more than 30 years at Blocksom & Company, where he was employed as a shipping clerk and forklift driver before retiring. After retirement, he continued working for more than 12 years at Polyfoam and also spent time working at Spot Not Car Wash.

Jerry was known as a devoted "prayer warrior," as well as the rock and patriarch of his family. His faith was the foundation of his life. He was a faithful and active member of Faith City Assembly of God for more than 60 years, where he built many lasting friendships and was always willing to encourage others in their walk of faith. Jerry also found great fulfillment serving in prison ministry at Westville Correctional Facility, where he shared his faith and offered encouragement to many individuals over the years. He was known for his kind heart, gentle spirit and willingness to pray with anyone who needed encouragement. He never hesitated to share the Gospel and often spoke openly about the love of Christ with both friends and strangers alike.

Jerry found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. He enjoyed watching classic western movies and spending time fishing whenever he had the opportunity. More than anything, he treasured time spent with his family. Whether gathering for holidays, sharing meals or simply enjoying one another's company, those moments meant the most to him. His children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were a constant source of pride and happiness in his life. Jerry will be deeply missed by his family and friends, but they take comfort in knowing he is now reunited with his beloved wife, Nancy, and resting in the presence of the Lord he faithfully served.

Contributions may be made to Faith City Assembly of God, 1314 S. Woodland Ave., Michigan City, IN 46360.

To sign the guestbook and leave condolences online, please visit our website at www.otthaverstock.com.