Obituary of Wayne Laverne Blank, Jr.

Wayne Laverne Blank, Jr. was born April 16, 1968, in Denver, Colorado. He was born from the union of Wayne Laverne Blank, Sr., and Phyllis Jean Johnson (Barron). He attended high school at Monroe High School and graduated with the class of 1986. He later was employed with the Chrysler Corporation as an end production worker.

In his younger years, Wayne's athleticism shone brightly as he played football for the Monroe High School Trojans. He brought that same level of dedication to his pursuits in adulthood, evident in his many years spent bowling strikes at Nortel Lanes.

Wayne had a love for gardening and a knack for vehicle repair. He found joy and fulfillment in tending to his bountiful garden, nurturing a wide variety of vegetables and flowers year after year. His hands-on approach and dedication to his plants were evident in the beauty of his garden. Wayne's love for tinkering extended to his vehicles, and despite having no formal training, he had a remarkable ability to repair them. Beyond his hobbies, Wayne found adventure and excitement in the hills of West Virginia, where he enjoyed hunting for deer and spending time with his family.

His bravery and sense of duty led him to serve as a volunteer firefighter for the Lasalle Township Fire Department, an adrenaline-fueled role that he cherished. Joining the department in April 1992, he dedicated himself to the community and rose through the ranks, ultimately retiring in December 2018 at the esteemed rank of first captain. His commitment and leadership were truly commendable, and he leaves behind a legacy of service and courage.

Wayne was family oriented, and it was no surprise he consistently showed kindness by supporting those who needed assistance, even buying groceries for those who needed them.

Wayne L. Blank, Jr., age 55, of Monroe, passed away suddenly on Tuesday January 2, 2024. In addition to his passing, he is preceded by a grandmother: Jean Barron; a grandfather: Laverne Blank; and a grandmother: Doris Kolb; a grandfather: Walter Barron.

Left to cherish his memory, he leaves his son: Gunner (Areal Hopson) Blank; his parents: Wayne Laverne (Sandy) Blank, Sr., and Phyllis (Bruce) Jean Johnson (Barron); his three sisters: Cristy (Bret) Hicks, Shanea Johnson, Amanda (Ryan) Gadille; step sister: Aprell Blank, one brother: Brian (Melissa) Johnson; several nieces and nephews.

Friends may gather on Monday January 8, 2024, from 4:00pm until 8:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe; 14567 South Dixie Highway, Monroe, Michigan 48161 (734) 241-7070. A celebration of His life will take place on Tuesday at 11:00am, led by Pastor Roy Southerland, assisted by Brian Johnson, also at Merkle’s. A procession to Roselawn Memorial Park Cemetery, LaSalle will immediately follow the service.

Memorial donations may be made to the family to assist with covering funeral costs.

Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.