George Harrison Blank

Family-Placed Obituary



George Harrison Blank George Harrison Blank, 84, died in his home, Austin, Tex., on June 23, 2005. He was born in Flint, Michigan and lived for many years in Pittsburgh, Pa., and Houston, Tex. George and his wife Dorothy moved to Austin in 1979. Mr. Blank graduated from Allegheny College in Pennsylvania where he was a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. He was a naval officer and fighter pilot who earned the distinguished Flying Cross as well two air medals during his WWII service in the Pacific. He was an executive with Joseph T. Ryerson, Inc. for 34 years. He completed his professional life working with the Chair of Free Enterprise at The University of Texas at Austin. He was a member of Rotary International in Pittsburgh, Houston and Austin. He was a talented painter and an avid tennis player. As important as the accomplishments described above are, it may be that his most meaningful contributions were expressed in the following excerpts from a letter sent to him by his granddaughter, Patty David, shortly before his passing. "I know the road of life for you at this point is far from smooth and invigorating. I wanted to take some time to acknowledge what a wonderful person you are. You have led a very accomplished life and with that, you have created our amazing family. How can a few words alone summarize a handsome man, competitive athlete, world traveler, [a naval officer and fighter pilot] artist, and ambitious businessman, loving husband and supportive father and grandfather? George Blank sums it up perfectly. How do I explain your courage and willpower to others...it is so strong and miraculous that it cannot be defined. We are all so proud of the strength you have maintained inside and instilled in all of us. I will always remember the many doors in life you have opened for yourself and for others. Your sincere and loving presence is so compelling to us all. ...Thank you for being such a wonderful grandfather." George Blank is survived by his wife Dorothy Douglas Blank, his children Joanne Loveland and Jeffrey Blank, his grandchildren Patty David, Ryan Loveland, Kristen Blank and Andrew Blank. The family suggests that donations to be made in his memory be sent to the National Ataxia Foundation, 2600 Fernbrook Lane, Suite 119, Minneapolis, MN 55447-4752. (763)553-0020.