Obituary for Martha K. Blank (nÊe Bauer) (March 10, 1929 – February 12, 2024)

Martha K. Blank, a woman of unwavering love and boundless creativity, passed away on February 12, 2024, at the age of 94. Her legacy is etched in the hearts of her family, friends, and the communities she touched.

Martha was born as Martha Bauer in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on March 10, 1929. She spent most of her life in the charming town of Mansfield, Ohio. Martha’s family was her anchor, and she shared a special bond with her late husband, Harvey Blank. Together, they weathered life’s storms and celebrated its joys.

Martha was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harvey, her son Brent Blank, her brother Rudy Bauer, and her sister Irma Hager. She is survived by her sister, Adeline (Bauer) Banks; her sons, Bruce (Terri Lockman) and Brad (Susan Gurski), 5 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

Martha’s journey was marked by resilience and purpose. After various jobs, she found her niche at Therm-O-Disc in Mansfield. Working first in the assembly plant and later in Quality Control, Martha contributed her skills and dedication to the company. Harvey, too, had his own path—he spent 30 years at the Mansfield Tire company before becoming the groundskeeper at Therm-O-Disc.

In 1988, Martha and Harvey retired, seeking warmth and tranquility in their retirement home within the Crystal Lake community in Avon Park, Florida. Winters were spent there, basking in the sun, while summers drew them back to their cherished cottage on the shores of Lake Erie in Ohio. Florida eventually became their full time home.

Undaunted by the challenge of raising three spirited boys, Martha’s hands were always busy with sewing, knitting and crocheting. she stitched love into every outfit she made—for nieces, neighbor girls, and even their Barbie dolls. Weekends at the Lake Erie cottage were filled with laughter, shared with the families of her sisters and brother. And yes, she even enjoyed fishing, as long as Harvey handled the bait and the fish.

At Crystal Lake, Martha’s spirit soared. She played golf with gusto, achieving an impressive three hole-in-ones. Socially active, she took up tennis in her sixties and engaged in Euchre games as well as various community activities. Her creativity knew no bounds as she added oil painting and needlepoint to her repertoire. Baby blankets for grandchildren and great-grandchildren, warm afghans for all—Martha’s love was woven into every stitch.

Martha K. Blank leaves behind a tapestry of memories—a life well-lived, a heart well-loved. As we bid her farewell, we celebrate her legacy and the joy she brought to those around her. May her soul find eternal peace, and may her creative spirit continue to inspire us all.

The family will host a short Memorial service for Martha and Brent at Mansfield’s Life Celebration Reception Center (129 S Main Street) on April 6 at 2:00, followed by an open house.