Dwain Edgar Blenden left this world at 2:30 pm on Tuesday, July 30th, 2019. His final wishes were granted, resting peacefully, surrounded by family, in the home he shared with his wife Flo for over 57 years.
Memorial Service: 10:00 AM, Saturday, August 17, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 140 Prairie Chapel Road, in Crawford.
Dwain was born in Deary, Idaho on April 7th, 1931, to Louis and Ellen Blenden. Dwain spent his youth growing up in the rugged country-side and logging towns indicative to the region. On through high school Dwain participated in sports as a young adult and had dreams of attending college to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering. Those plans were put on hold as he entered into the United States Air Force to serve his country during the Korean War. During his time overseas, he trained as an airplane mechanic. Little did he know that the skills and discipline he gained, would form the foundation of his life. Dwain often credited his time in the service as being a turning point in developing the man he came to be.
While stationed at James Connally Air Force base, located at Waco, Texas in 1953, he met the woman who would eventually become his wife of sixty-five years. Dwain married Flo Ewing on August 7, 1954, and eventually settled in the small community of Willow Grove, just outside of the Waco, Texas city limits. This was to be their only home for the remainder of his life. Over the years, as the family grew, Dwain expanded that little two room, a-frame house into a space that he, Flo, and eventually their four sons would cherish as a special place of love, support, and security.
In 1978, Dwain realized there was a niche to be filled in the growing community of Willow Grove. One that would allow him not only to provide a much-needed service, but also give him the freedom to build his own business and provide for his family. Country Service Center, a full-service automotive garage was born. For the next three decades he would expand the business as he expanded his cliental. All the while passing on his knowledge and sense of confidence to his sons along the way. Eventually retiring and passing the torch to one of his own.
All through his life, Dwain was a fierce supporter of family. He coached and mentored all four of his children through their adventures in various sports, hobbies, and arts. He worked tirelessly day in and day out, seldomly missing an opportunity to show his support. This love and dedication did not stop there. As the family grew from four sons, to the addition of daughters-in-law, ten grandchildren, their spouses, then culminating with eight great-grandchildren plus two more on the way at the time of his passing, Dwain was always there to show his love and support.
Dwain Edgar Blenden, of Willow Grove, Texas, left this world with an eighty-eight-year legacy.
He is survived by his loving wife Flo, of sixty-five years; and four sons, Richard Blenden and his wife Connie, of Willow Grove, Russell Blenden and his wife Celeste, of Crawford, Robert Blenden and his wife Dawn, of Willow Grove; Ronald Blenden and his wife Lisa, of Lago Vista.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St Paul Lutheran Church PO Box 98, Crawford, TX 76638.
Print Obituary & Condolences
Heart felt condolences go out to the entire family. I have fond memories of taking my car up to Dwain’s. He would do a good job for a good price. He was an asset to our community.
Sincerely, Sabrina Buice Thomas
Sincere sympathy and condolences to all the family! I have known Dwain for 65 years since he married my dear friend, Flo Ewing. He was respected and admired by many and His large family was his pride and joy! I know he was a role model to their sons and grandsons! MaryLois Irvin
My heart and prayers are with all of you. I loved to go visit with Mr. Dwain and Miss Flo. He liked to tease you and cut up. I loved his dry wit. My husband Ray loved him very much as well as his sister Flo. To all the Blendon family. You are a strong and wonderful family. It shows in everything you do each day. I know everything Mr. Dwain taught you will continue to live on in each family member. God Bless you!!!!
Peaceful thoughts to the entire family, cousins whom I hope to meet some day! I’m so sorry I never got to meet Dwain.
Flo and family, I was so sad to read of Dwain’s passing. May you find comfort in your many memories of him. My condolences, thoughts and prayers to all of you.
With deepest sympathy, Phyllis Benham
A life well lived!! Respected by the community, idolized by a large family and a devoted wife of 65 years by his side! Dwain Blenden, truly a good man! Sincere condolences to Flo and all the Blendens!! Love , Mary Lois Irvin
A life well lived!! Respected by the community, idolized by a large family and a devoted wife of 65 years by his side! Dwain Blenden, truly a good man! Sincere condolences to Flo and all the Blendens!! Love , Mary Lois Irvin
Flo & Family,
I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. May God comfort you all in this time of sorrow. May He give you the peace which surpasses all understanding.
Cynthia Lawson (Frank’s wife)
Deepest sympathy to the Blenden Family. Dwain was a special Speegleville resident. Many fond memories of Dwain and Flo Blenden.
Cathy Hall Wood
Sorry to hear about Uncle D. After all that has taken place, I must admit he was my favorite. Comfort comes for God. My God give comfort to all the family.
Dwain was a man who loved his family very much. We enjoyed visiting Dwain and Flo at Speegleville School events during the early years our children’s activities. He always had time to visit when we went to Country Service Center even though he was busy. God Bless all the Family during your time of sorrow. Love, Ann & Grant Hayes
Football games, baseball games, any game with a ball involved was a magic stick for the Blenden family either watching or coaching. We all had a ball in the good old days. Your boys were always very nice to people and in the stands, etc. What good parents and friends you were and are. Hope when our time comes someone will think of us and the fun times we had. See you in Heaven one of these days. Thanks for being an important part of our young days.
My deepest sympathies and condolences to the Blenden family. I will always remember Dwain as our little league coach and a great neighbor to our family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless.