George Washington Blanton

George Washington Blanton, age 84, of Union, died February 4, 2016 at his home. A viewing will take place on Wednesday, February 10, 2016 at Daniels~Knopp Funeral, Cremation & Life Celebration Center, 1502 7th Street in La Grande from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. A graveside service with Military Honors will be held at the Union Cemetery on Thursday, February 11, 2016 at 1:00 p.m.

George was born on May 26, 1931, the son of George W. and Iva (Stamper) Blanton in La Grande. He was raised in La Grande. He enlisted in the United States Army and served from February 27, 1951 until February 26, 1954. On June 26, 1955 he married Rita Kay Raybourn in Las Vegas, Nevada. In 1958 they moved to La Grande, where he worked as a truck driver for Boise Cascade. In the mid 1980's he moved to Reno, Nevada where he was supervisor for United Coin. In 1994 he and Rita returned to Oregon and lived in Union. She preceded him in death on November 22, 2002.

George was an outdoorsman enjoying gardening, hiking, hunting, fishing and camping. He also enjoyed woodworking and photography. He was co-founder of the Citizens for Fair Taxes.

Survivors include his children, Terry and Dennis Kaneaster of Irrigon, Sheryl and John Benson of Pendleton, George and Nancy Blanton of Albany, Charlotte and Allan Hansen of Elgin, Patty and Craig Claude of Union and Cindy Gelowicz of La Grande; fifteen grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren and other relatives and friends.

Those who wish may make contributions in his memory to the Heart and Home Hospice in care of Daniels~Knopp.

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