Edward M. Blanko Sr.

Grovetown - Edward Marvin "Ed" Blanko, 92, of Grovetown, GA entered into eternal rest on February 4, 2024. Born on July 30, 1931, in Shelton, CT, Ed touched the lives of many with his kindness and he left behind a legacy that will be cherished forever.

Ed attended Seymour High School in Seymour, CT, and went on to pursue higher education at Newberry College in Newberry, SC. During his college years, he excelled in sports, playing football, basketball, and baseball.   After leaving Newberry College, Ed went on to play semi-professional baseball and basketball.  In 2007, in recognition of his outstanding athletic contributions, Ed was inducted into the Newberry Sports Hall of Fame for football, baseball, and basketball. This achievement was a source of great pride for him throughout his life.

After completing his education, Ed embarked on a fulfilling career in the shoe manufacturing industry. He worked as a Plant Manager at Uniroyal in Thomson, GA, where he was involved in the production of Keds, and later at Wolverine World Wide in the Dominican Republic, specializing in boot manufacturing. Ed's talent for guiding and inspiring others was evident throughout his career, and he made a lasting impact on those he worked with.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ed's true joy came from his family. He loved them with all his heart and was a pillar of support and love. He is survived by his daughters, Karen Callaway (Frank Creech) and Ellen Penland, as well as his grandchildren, Tammy Hubert (Nick), Ryan Callaway (Bonnie), Lauren Van de Water (Chandler), and Leah Penland. Ed also leaves behind great-grandchildren Reagan Hubert, Jackson, Logan, and Colton Callaway, Everly, Finn, June, and Josey Van de Water. He is also survived by his sister, Jean DiMauro, and brother, Stanley Blanko.

Ed was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dorothy Aldo Blanko, his son, Edward Marvin Blanko, Jr., his father, Stanley Blanko, Sr., his mother, Helen Varsanic Blanko, and his brother, Marty Blanko.

As we reflect on Ed's life, let us remember the joy he brought to our lives and the countless lessons he imparted. His kindness and ability to touch the hearts of those around him will forever be cherished.

A celebration of life will be held with the family at a later date in lieu of a traditional funeral service.

You may sign a guest book online at www.curtisfuneralhome.com

Curtis Funeral Home is in charge of local arrangements.