Mrs. Dorothy “Dot” A. Blank, 91, of Kewanee, Illinois passed away at 9:04 pm, Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at OSF St. Mary Medical Center.
She was born January 1, 1933, in Maquon, Illinois, the daughter of Melvin and Sylvia (Varnold) Sayrs.
Dot is survived by her daughter, Carol (the late David) Fowler of Galva, Illinois; her three stepsons, Mike, Matt, and Mitch Blank; her stepdaughter, Nancy Epley; and several grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren, creating a family of over five generations. She is preceded in death by her parents, her son-in-law, David, five brothers, two sisters and her stepson, Butch Epley.
Dot graduated from Knoxville High School and later enlisted in the US WAC (Women’s Army Corp) during World War II for two years. While during her time in the service the film, “Never Wave At WAC”, was being filmed and Dot and her squad were cast as extras. After returning home she lived and worked in the Peoria area. She worked for Klaus Companies and after 25 years she retired.
Dot was a faithful active member of the Mt. Hawley Community Church in Peoria. There she assisted in the kitchen and taught Bible Study. She also enjoyed volunteering at Heritage Nursing Home in Chillicothe. She was an avid fan of Wheel of Fortune. Dot was most proud of her family and spending time with them.
Visitation will be 10:00-11:00 am Friday, May 31, 2024, at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services. A Memorial Service will follow at 11:00 am at the chapel. The burial will be in East Linwood Cemetery with Military Honors provided by the Knox County Honor Guard. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association. Online condolences may be offered at www.h-p-w.com.
