Thomas Blankenberg

Thomas "Tom" Blankenberg, 73, passed away on Thursday, March 6, 2025 at McClure Respite House in Colchester,VT with his daughter, Amber, by his side. Tom suffered from Peripheral Artery Disease with complications due to Alzheimer's Disease.
Tom was born in Sodus, NY on March 15, 1951 to John and Nellie (Van den Heuvel) Blankenberg.
Tom started his life-long career at Garlock, Inc. at age 17. He took a two-year sabbatical from Garlock to enlist in the U.S. Navy (U.S.S Biddle) during the Vietnam War. After he returned from active duty, Tom went back to work at Garlock, Inc. and stayed there until his retirement in 2012, serving the company for more than forty years.
Tom was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing, hunting, trap shooting, and even a few years of golf! He dedicated much of his spare time volunteering at the American Legion, August Manor Post 286 in Newark, NY. He was there bright and early for countless events to help set up, cook (his favorite part), and clean up. His dedication didn't stop there, he also served on the Board of Trustees as President, Vice President, and a trustee for many years.
Tom was a proud father and grandfather to his two daughters Amber LaPointe and Melissa (Kassim) Dawson and four grandchildren Avery (21), Hanna (20), Tahseen (4), and Ahsan (2) and will be dearly missed by them.
Tom was born into a large family with 13 siblings. He is predeceased by his parents, his brothers Donald, John, Charlie, Larry, Dave, Jim, and his sister Diane. He is survived by six siblings, Louie, Pat, Barb, Gerry, Steve, and Mike.
A graveside military service will be held at the Fairville Cemetery and a celebration of life will be held at the Newark American Legion at a later date. For details, please contact his daughter Amber at 518-912-4394 (text or call). Arrangements by Chase-Smith Funeral Home of Stillwater, NY.