James Howard Blankenship, age 71, died Wednesday, February 4, 2015 at his residence in Massillon following a courageous 15 year battle with cancer.

He was born October 20, 1943, in Fort Worth, TX the son of the late Howard and Elzorah L. (Durham) Blankenship.

Jim was a 1961 graduate of Washington High School.

He was a John Hancock Insurance agent for 20 years and purchased Johnnie's Pastries of Massillon which he ran for 14 years.

He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, and the Elks #441.  Jim was an avid Massillon Tigers fan, and he enjoyed golfing and his love of classic automobiles.

James is survived by wife of 51 years, Mary Jane (Yingling) Blankenship; daughters, Deborah R. (John) Triner, Diane M (Troy) Julian; grandchildren, James, David, and Daniel Triner, Charles James "CJ", and Stephanie Julian; sister-in-law, Helen Benard; brother-in-law, William (Sandy) Yingling, and a niece and nephews, and his special dog, Teddy.

Visitation will be held Sunday, February 8 from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Heitger Funeral Service - Massillon Chapel, 639 First St NE.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, February 9, 2015 at St. Mary Catholic Church, at 10AM with Revs. Edward Gretchko and Tom Bishop celebrating.

Burial at Rose Hill Memorial Gardens, in Massillon.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society,525 North Broad St, Canfield, OH 44406.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. James Schmotzer and his staff; and Aultman Compassionate Care and Hospice.

Please leave condolences at www.heitger.com

Heitger Funeral Service - MASSILLON CHAPEL 330-833-3248

Massillon's Oldest Family Owned Business