Richard H. Blankenship age 86, of Mitchell, SD died Saturday, January 11, 2020 at Avera Queen of Peace Hospital under hospice care. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 AM Thursday, January 16, 2020 at Holy Family Catholic Church with burial and military rites at the American Legion Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Wednesday, January 15, 2020 at the Will Funeral Chapel with a prayer service beginning at 7:00 PM.

Richard Blankenship, son of Bryan and Lucille (Bruetel) Blankenship, was born September 30, 1933 in Carroll, IA. He attended country school in Gray, IA. After his schooling, Richard worked on the family farm. He enlisted in the US Army and served in Korea. After he was honorably discharged, Richard made his home in Mitchell.

He was united in marriage with Bette Lou Sharkey on November 30, 1957 at Holy Family Catholic Church in Mitchell, SD. The couple continued to make their home in Mitchell. Richard was employed with the South Dakota Department of Transportation. He retired at the age of 62 after 31 years with the South Dakota Department of Transportation. In his retirement he drove truck for Commercial Asphalt and trimmed trees.

Richard enjoyed going to coffee with his buddies at Marlin I-90 and visiting the sale barn. In his younger years he also enjoyed hunting and fishing.

He is a member of Holy Family Catholic Church, the American Legion and the Moose Lodge.

Grateful for having shared his life are his son, Gregg (Mary Harrington) Blankenship, Mitchell, SD; a brother, Al (Susan) Blankenship, Alexandria, SD; three sisters, Thelma (Wilbert) Hofer, Mitchell, SD, Darlene Lauck, Salem, SD, Doris (Jerry) Grady, Rapid City, SD; and many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Bette Lou Blankenship on September 13, 2016; his parents; a sister, Judy Thompson; and four brothers, Paul, Marvin, Harold and Robert.