Donald E. Blessman

1922 - 2011

Donald E. Blessman, 88, of Mason City died at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, IL on March 17, 2011.  He was born on November 8, 1922 in rural Mason City, the son of Claude and Florence (Lussenhop) Blessman.  He married RosElla List on December 29, 1943.

Donald graduated from Mason City High School and served in the U.S. Coast Guard during WWII.  He was a member of the American Legion.  He was a member at the Mason City United Methodist Church where he was the choir director, youth group counselor and also served on many committees.  Don retired from Keystone Steel and Wire Company after 41 years as a machinist and tool and die maker.

Survivors include his wife of 67 years, RosElla, son Gary (Marcia) Blessman of Princeton, IL, daughter Donna (Bob) Stadsholt of Normal, IL.  Also surviving are seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Gene Blessman.

Don and his wife spent many winters in Florida where he enjoyed his favorite pastime playing golf.  He loved to travel and one of his favorite places was the Rocky Mountain National Park.

Don was dedicated to his family and his love will be missed.

Funeral Services will be at 10:00am, on Monday, March 21, 2011 at the United Methodist Church.  Visitation will be Sunday at Hurley Funeral Home from 4:00 – 6:00pm.  Jim Bortell will officiate.  Cremation rites will be accorded.  Burial of ashes will be at a later date.  Memorial contributions may be left to St. John’s Hospice, Mason City United Methodist Church or American Cancer Society.  Hurley Funeral Home in Mason City is in charge of arrangements.

Online memorials for the family may be left at www.hurleyfh.com