Marlene (Yockey) Blankenship

February 10, 1942 ~ March 22, 2025 (age 83)

On March 22, 2025, the world lost a little bit of its sparkle as Marlene Blankenship, a beloved matriarch and lifelong South Bend resident, passed away peacefully at the age of 83.  Born on February 10, 1942, in South Bend to the late Russell and Gwendolyn Yockey, Marlene was a proud graduate of the historic Central High School, class of 1960. She lived a life defined by deep love, quiet strength, and a fierce devotion to her family.

Marlene was always there for her family and friends.  Whether it was a long-distance phone call, sporting event, or a celebration big or small, she showed up, often leaving you with a witty remark that would stick in your mind for days. She was the kind of person who made you feel special, loved, and never far from a good story.

She is lovingly survived by her children, Kris Heckaman (John) of South Bend and Jeff Blankenship of Jimtown; her stepson, Jay Blankenship of South Bend; her grandchildren, Jacob Blankenship, Amanda Heckaman Stephens, Eric Heckaman, Zachary Blankenship (Lauren), and Heston Blankenship; and her great-grandchildren, Maxwell Stephens and Milayna Stephens. Each of them carries forward a piece of her spirit, humor, strength, independence, and a bit of her legendary stubbornness.

Marlene also leaves behind her brother, Lowell Yockey of South Bend, her sister, Marilyn Yockey, and her sisters-in-law, Judy Yockey and Michele Yockey. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Leland Yockey and Larry Yockey, whom she undoubtedly greeted in the next life with open arms and a story to share.

A woman of simple pleasures and steadfast routines, Marlene had an almost sacred daily ritual: a senior citizen’s Coke from McDonald’s.  She found joy in the little things:  keeping in touch with loved ones near and far, a good show with subtitles, and avoiding roundabouts and left turns at all costs.  Even in her later years, Marlene never let age define her spirit. Just a few years ago, she could be found riding her great-grandson’s bike — to the amazement (and slight panic) of those around her. Her zest for life, her sense of humor, and her refusal to act her age made her a joy to be around and an inspiration to all who knew her.

Above all, Marlene will be remembered as the glue that held her family together — the phone call you always returned, the seat always filled at a birthday party or holiday, and the quiet voice reminding you to take care of yourself — even when she insisted she was “just fine.”

A graveside service will be held at a later date at Highland Cemetery in South Bend where her loved ones will gather to share stories, laughter, and maybe even raise a McDonald’s Coke in her honor.

Palmer Funeral Home – River Park Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com. Memorial contributions may be made to The American Lung Association.

03/25/2025 EJS

https://www.palmerfuneralhomes.com/obituary/Marlene-Blankenship