The coaching community mourns the loss of John D. Blankenship, who passed away on June 6, 2026, at the age of 80.
Coach Blankenship dedicated his life to education, athletics, and the development of young people. Throughout a distinguished career, he served as a teacher and coach at Houghton Lake, Calumet, Millington, and Frankenmuth, while also coaching football at Kalamazoo Hackett and Northwood University. Generations of student-athletes benefited from his leadership, guidance, and unwavering commitment to the values that define educational athletics.
John understood that coaching was about much more than wins and losses. He taught teamwork, discipline, resilience, sportsmanship, and character—lessons that his athletes carried with them long after their playing days were over. His influence reached far beyond the sidelines, leaving a lasting impact on countless students, fellow coaches, and communities across Michigan.
We extend our deepest condolences to his wife of 59 years, Lucy, his children, grandchildren, extended family, former players, colleagues, and friends. Coach Blankenship’s legacy will live on through the lives he shaped and the example he set for all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Rest in peace, Coach Blankenship. Thank you for a lifetime of service to education and athletics.
