Garrett first met Dodie when they were just 15 and 14 years old at a gathering at a friend’s house. Within a few years, they were wed. Their dedication to and love for each other through the good times and challenge of a 62-year union was a beautiful example of what a marriage should be.
In his early years, Garrett Jr., working under Garrett Sr., at his business, Garrett’s Standard Service (an automotive repair and filling station in Maplewood), learned the trade that would later serve him as he ran the business. Subsequently, his skills as a mechanic and small business owner led him to operate two service stations in South St Louis County.
When he decided on a career change and became a construction laborer, he then spent 25+ years as a proud member of Laborer’s Local 110, working for many of St. Louis’ largest commercial projects.
Garrett’s talents at building and repairing things extended into his personal life. There was nothing he couldn’t fix or figure out and he generously shared this gift with his friends and family. Whether it was a car that wasn’t idling right, an appliance that had broken down or a necklace that needed to be untangled, you could always count on him.
He loved his family above all, devoted not only to his wife Dodie and children, Jerry and Laura, but also his 5 grandchildren, Kenneth, Marissa, Olivia, Natalie and Jack and he absolutely adored his great-granddaughter, Malana.
Other things that made Garrett smile: holidays with family; his 1957 Chevy Nomad and 1969 Grand Prix; cars; the occasional drag race; a cold beverage; tinkering; Elvis; Imperial dancing; hot weather; St. Louis Cardinals baseball; and beating everyone at pool.
He was LOVED, funny, generous, and handsome and he will be greatly missed by family and friends. “Rest in Peace…Our Sweet Daddy”
Garrett is preceded in death by his parents, Garrett Sr. and Ethel Blankenship; his brother Johnny Blankenship; and his sisters Sandy Moran (nee Blankenship) and Pamela Kallmeyer (nee Blankenship); and his daughter-in-law, Julie Blankenship.
Visitation for Garrett will be Saturday, August 9, 10 am until service at 12 pm at Kutis Affton Chapel, 10151 Gravois Rd. Immediately following visitation and service, we will process to Lakewood Park Cemetery, 7330 MacKenzie Rd, Affton, for a committal service.
Laura, our hearts are broken with yours. Pray you find peace and comfort as you share memories with your family and friends. Pray all of you feel God’s loving arms around you. Sending lots of love and hugs.