Gary Lynn Blenden, 73, of Topeka, passed away Wednesday, August 11, 2021.
He was born April 7, 1948, in Cedar Vale, Kansas, the son of Elston Franklin and Maggie "Lorene" (Herrington) Blenden. He was a 1966 graduate of Holton High School. He served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War.
Gary was employed by General Foods in Topeka and later was owner/operator of Blenden Trucking Inc., until retiring in 2010.
He was a member of American Legion Post No. 400 in North Topeka and Harley Owners Group.
Gary married Marcia Kay Pollock on February 3, 1968 in Holton, KS. She survives in Topeka. Other survivors include his two daughters, Andra K. Wahl of Topeka and Deena L. (Michael) Robinson of Auburn, KS; his son, Jason M. Blenden of Topeka; seven grandchildren; his sister, Joyce (George) Cercone of Riverside, CA; and his brother, Samuel (Charlotte) Blenden of Topeka.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Frances Chaffee.
Gary enjoyed spending time with family and friends on the front porch, attending his grandchildren's activities, enjoyed watching KU Basketball and spending time in Oak Island, NC. He was also an avid Harley Davidson Motorcycle Enthusiast.
Honoring his request, cremation is planned. The family will receive friends from 6:00-8:00 p.m., Friday, August 20, 2021 at the Penwell-Gabel Cremations, Funerals & Receptions, 1321 SW 10th Ave., Topeka, KS 66604.
Private family inurnment with military honors will be at Memorial Park Cemetery, Topeka.
Memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675-8517 or to Vietnam Veterans of America #604, PO Box 750322, Topeka KS 66675-0322.
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