David Joseph Blankenship
Obituary

David, 79, of West Hills, California, passed away on June 30, 2025, at West Hills Hospital due to cardiopulmonary arrest, atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, cirrhosis, liver failure, and COPD.  He was born on December 9, 1945, in Duluth, Minnesota.

David worked as a plumber in Burbank, California, for nearly 50 years and was proud of his career. Known as “Dave the plumber,” he built a reputation as a dependable, hardworking man who also loved to laugh and bring joy to those around him.

He had many passions throughout his life, including riding his Gold Wing motorcycle on long trips, assembling and flying model airplanes, and enjoying time as a gun enthusiast. He also loved dancing, and throughout his life he was known as a wonderful dancer. David enjoyed telling stories and jokes that entertained his friends and family. He was also a big fan of Minnesota sports, cheering for the Twins, Vikings, and the former North Stars hockey team. Growing up in Duluth with his 13 siblings, he also loved watching the Northern Lights.

David was proud of his four children: Susan, David Jr. (Pam); Mark, and Cindy (Tom).

He loved cooking and baking, a skill he studied while attending baking school in Duluth. He was often found shopping for ingredients and preparing meals for those he cared about.

He will be remembered as a strong, witty man with a powerful presence, a contagious laugh, and a big heart. His life was filled with dancing, ice skating, hunting, fishing, and above all, his family.

David is survived by his brother Duane; his sisters Ann, Janet (Ken), and Phyllis (Tom); his brother Kenneth (Lea); and his sister-in-law Audrey & Janice; his grandchildren Brandon, Amanda, Kayla, Daniel, Ashlyn, Alex, great grandson Hudson; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Berdeen and Mae Blankenship; his sisters Marge, Dolores, and Mary; his brothers Dick, Jack, Michael, Leo; and granddaughter Nicole.

A funeral mass will be held on September 27, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Saint Bernardine’s of Siena Catholic Church in Woodland Hills, Ca.

David’s memory will be cherished by his family and friends, who will miss his laughter, his warmth, and the light he brought into their lives.