Charen Blankenship

Our beloved Charen passed away July 1, 2016 at home in Olympia, Washington, with us holding her hands. She was born February 23, 1943 to Theodore and Ellen Chrey in Bremerton, Washington. Charen graduated from West Bremerton High School in 1960, and earned a BA in Psychology at TESC, graduating in 1995. She married Ralph Blankenship on August 6, 1976 in Olympia. Charen worked as a clerk at the Seattle Federal Reserve Bank, then as a classified ad taker at the Bremerton Sun newspaper, followed by a clerk typist and secretary at the State Department of Personnel, and finally in Human Resources at TESC from 1973 through 2000 when she retired. She loved her kids and grandkids, volunteering at their schools, arranging for camps, or doing whatever else she thought could help them. She loved boating, traveling and gardening. She was a member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, the Bremerton Sun Group, which was comprised of former employees who have gathered now for 43 years, and personnel organizations. 1 Corinthians 13:4 defines Charen; she was patient, kind, not boastful, not proud, and was not envious. She did not dishonor others, she was not self-seeking, was not easily angered, kept no record of wrongs. She did not delight in evil but rejoiced in the truth. She protected her family and friends, she always trusted, always hoped, and persevered through her hard work and thinking through difficult issues. Charen had a vulnerable, trusting, and giving side to her that endeared her to others. Yet she stood up for herself just fine when she saw the need. She is survived by her husband, Ralph Blankenship; son, Theodore Blankenship of Olympia; daughter, Kelly Codorniz of Olympia; two grandchildren, Eli and Gabe; and sister, Karla McCullough of Silverdale, Washington. She was predeceased by her parents; and brothers, Ted Chrey and George Chrey. Please leave memories of Charen or condolences for her family in the Guestbook below.