Johannes Bernardus Blankenstein

Johannes (John) Bernardus Blankenstein passed away peacefully on August 1, 2025, surrounded by his beloved wife Wanda M. Blankenstein and family.

John was born in Maartensdijk, Netherlands, on October 4, 1934, to Hendrik and Jacoba A. Blankenstein, the first of four children. The family lived in Utrecht during World War II, where John’s early years were shaped by resilience and strength.

In May 1950, at the age of fifteen, John and his family immigrated to the United States in pursuit of new opportunities. He proudly served in the United States Army and retired honorably after thirty-eight years of dedicated service, holding the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4 (CW4) with the Utah Army National Guard. When asked about his role, he would simply say with humility, “I was a soldier.”

John had a deep love for his family and found immense joy in spending time with them. He and Wanda shared a love of adventure, traveling the world together. Whether exploring new places or gathered at home, John cherished every moment surrounded by those he loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hendrik and Jacoba A. Blankenstein, his brother Hendrik, and his sister Elly A. John is survived by his loving wife, Wanda M. Blankenstein; children, Mary J. Blankenstein and Michael J. Blankenstein (Janalee); sister Willy Shaw (Doug); stepsons, Richard E. Maxwell, Shane R. Maxwell (April); twenty-eight grandchildren; thirty-seven great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren.

Viewings will be held August 11th, 2025, 6 pm - 8 pm, and August 12th, 2025, 10 am - 10:45 am at Memorial Mortuaries, located at 6500 S. Redwood Rd. Taylorsville, UT 84123. The memorial service will be held on August 12th, 2025, beginning at 11 am at the same location. The graveside services will begin at 2 pm at the Utah Veterans Cemetery located at 17111 1700 W. Bluffdale, UT 84065. There will be a luncheon afterwards held at the Camp Williams Officers Club, Bldg. 8100, Officer St. and Utah Ave. (valid identification is required).

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Wounded Warriors Foundation or St. Jude's Hospital.