Larry Bruce Blankenbaker, 74, of Galena, IL, unexpectedly passed away at home on Saturday, June 1, 2024. A celebration of life will be held from 1 to 4 PM, on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at the Galena Elks Lodge, Galena. In keeping with his wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family. He was born on August 1, 1949, in Rensselaer, IN, the son of LaVern and Jean (Schuringa) Blankenbaker. Larry graduated from DeMotte High School, DeMotte, IN, with the class of 1967. He went on to graduate from Valparaiso University in 1971. Larry married Mary Dietrich on March 25, 1972, at St. Matthews Cathedral, South Bend, IN. He was a Junior High School science teacher and High School football and wrestling coach for North Judson High School, IN. Larry worked as an emergency room technician at Community Hospital in Indianapolis, IN. He also worked for 3M and WL Gore. In 1986, he and his wife purchased Benjamin's restaurant and bar, Galena, and

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