Descendants of Andrew Blunk 1760 - 1855

1.  Andrew BLUNK, born 28 Feb 1760, Ireland.  He married Mary CALHOUN, 1783, in Pennsylvania, born Abt    1764, Virginia, died 1855, Harrison County, Indiana, buried: Harrison County, Indiana.  Andrew died 06 May 1821, Harrison County, Indiana.  1810 Census, Jefferson County, Kentucky; 1820 census, Harrison County, Indiana. Mary: 1830 census-Posey Twp., Harrison County, Indiana. Buried in the Blunk Cemetery Webster Township, Harrison County, Indiana

                             Children:

            2.       i      Thomas BLUNK, born 1775-1794.  He married (1) Sally LEATHERLAND, 26 Feb 1805, in Jefferson County, Kentucky.  He married (2) Mary BREWER, 07 Sep 1809, in Jefferson County, Kentucky, born 1775-1794.  He married (3) Margaret THOMPSON, 02 May 1820, in Lawrence County, Indiana.  Thomas was listed in an 1812 Tax list for Harrison County, Indiana as owning two horses. He was listed in the 1820 census of Decker Township, Lawrence County, Indiana. It is not certain if he had two wives or just one of those listed. No further info was found on him in either Indiana or Kentucky. He had a daughter & a son under 10, and a daughter 10-16 (1820 census). 1820 census-Lawrence County, Indiana.  Mary: Daughter of Benjamin Brewer.

        +  3.       ii    Elizabeth BLUNK born Abt    1790.

            4.       iii   Mary BLUNK, born Abt    1792.  She married George MARKWELL, 29 Nov 1813, in Jefferson County, Kentucky, born 14 Oct 1787, Jefferson County, Kentucky, (son of George MARKWELL and Jane RAY). George: 1820 census-Jefferson County, Kentucky.

        +  5.       iv    Rachael BLUNK born Abt    1794.

        +  6.       v     Joseph BLUNK born 25 Mar 1799.

        +  7.       vi    Andrew Jackson BLUNK born 06 Jun 1801.

            8.       vii  Sarah BLUNK, born Abt    1806, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  She married George BRINDLEY, 04 Jul 1822, in Harrison County, Indiana.

        +  9.       viii John BLUNK born Abt    1811.

Second Generation

3.  Elizabeth BLUNK, born Abt    1790, Pennsylvania.  She married John MARKWELL, 27 Mar 1806, in Jefferson County, Kentucky, born 03 May 1780, Jefferson County, Kentucky, (son of George MARKWELL and Jane RAY). John: 1850 census-Bullitt County, Kentucky.

                             Children:

            10.     i      Joseph MARKWELL, born Abt    1829, Kentucky.

5.  Rachael BLUNK, born Abt    1794, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  She married (1) Peter Hooper TABLER, 06 Mar 1822, in Harrison County, Indiana, born 1794, Middletown, Frederick County, Maryland, (son of John Peter TABLER and Elizabeth HOOPER) died 06 Apr 1826, Floyd County, Indiana.  She married (2) John SNIDER, 06 Jun 1829, in Harrison County, Indiana.

                             Children:

            11.     i      William Andrew TABLER, born 21 Nov 1822, Harrison County, Indiana.  1860 census - New Albany, Floyd County, Indiana.

            12.     ii    John Emmanuel TABLER, born 17 Jun 1824, Harrison County, Indiana.

6.  Joseph BLUNK, born 25 Mar 1799, Kentucky.  He married Mahala TABLER, 26 Oct 1822, in Harrison County, Indiana, born 24 Apr 1804, Kentucky, died 10 Dec 1867, Floyd County, Indiana, buried: Franklin Township, Floyd County, Indiana.  Joseph died 29 Jul 1867, Floyd County, Indiana, buried: Franklin Township, Floyd County, Indiana.  1830 census-Posey Twp., Harrison County, Indiana. 1840 census, Floyd County, Indiana. 1860 census-Franklin Twp., Floyd County, Indiana. Buried in Blunk Cemetery.  Mahala: Buried in Blunk Cemetery.

                             Children:

        +  13.     i      Elizabeth BLUNK born 25 Sep 1823.

        +  14.     ii    Mary BLUNK.

            15.     iii   Sarah BLUNK, born Abt    1829.  She married Martin V. HANGER, 02 Oct 1847, in Floyd County, Indiana, born Abt    1826, died 20 Apr 1919, Floyd County, Indiana, buried: Edwardsville, Floyd County, Indiana.  Sarah died 16 Nov 1904, Floyd County, Indiana, buried: Edwardsville, Floyd County, Indiana.  Buried in Tunnell Hill Church Cemetery.  Martin: Buried in Tunnell Hill Church Cemetery.

        +  16.     iv    Mahala Marie BLUNK born 12 Jan 1831.

        +  17.     v     Peter Andrew BLUNK born 06 Apr 1833.

        +  18.     vi    Martha Jane BLUNK born 18 Jan 1838.

            19.     vii  Rachael BLUNK, born 11 Apr 1840, Floyd County, Indiana, died 11 Jun 1845, Floyd County, Indiana, buried: Franklin Township, Floyd County, Indiana.  Buried in Blunk Cemetery.

            20.     viii James H. BLUNK, born 16 Mar 1840, Floyd County, Indiana, died 26 Jun 1848, Floyd County, Indiana, buried: Franklin Township, Floyd County, Indiana.  Buried in Blunk Cemetery.

            21.     ix    Julia BLUNK, born Abt    1859, Indiana.

            22.     x     Elvira BLUNK, born 02 Oct 1862, Floyd County, Indiana, died 14 Oct 1873, Floyd County, Indiana, buried: Franklin Township, Floyd County, Indiana.  Buried in Blunk Cemetery.

7.  Andrew Jackson BLUNK, born 06 Jun 1801, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  He married Mary (Polly) JOHNSON, 05 Mar 1822, in Harrison County, Indiana, born 24 Jun 1803, Kentucky, died 07 Nov 1872, Harrison County, Indiana, buried: Harrison County, Indiana.  Andrew died 26 Jan 1877, Harrison County, Indiana, buried: Harrison County, Indiana.  1840, 1850 census-Harrison County, Indiana. 1860 census-Posey Twp., Harrison County, Indiana. 1870 census-Webster Twp., Harrison County, Indiana. Buried in Blunk Cemetery, Webster Township, Harrison County, Indiana.  Mary: Buried in Blunk Cemetery, Webster Township, Harrison County, Indiana.

                             Children:

        +  23.     i      John Thomas BLUNK born 01 Jun 1825.

            24.     ii    Henson BLUNK, born 1826, Indiana.  Died in Brazos. He was a soldier in the Mexican War.

        +  25.     iii   Joseph BLUNK born 02 Nov 1829.

            26.     iv    Jane BLUNK, born Abt    1832, Kentucky.  She married Gabriel FARNSLEY, 19 Dec 1850, in Harrison County, Indiana.

            27.     v     Adaline BLUNK, born Abt    1834, Kentucky.

        +  28.     vi    Andrew J. BLUNK born Abt    1835.

        +  29.     vii  Levi BLUNK born 09 Sep 1837.

        +  30.     viii Amos BLUNK born 19 Apr 1841.

            31.     ix    Martha BLUNK, born Abt    1842, Indiana.

            32.     x     William BLUNK, born Abt    1844, Kentucky.  He died young of TB. Buried in the Blunk Cemetery, Webster Township, Harrison County, Indiana.

9.  John BLUNK, born Abt    1811, Kentucky.  He married (1) Sarah CARTER, 08 Jun 1836, in Harrison County, Indiana, born 17 Nov 1801, Kentucky, died 14 Apr 1870, Harrison County, Indiana, buried: Harrison County, Indiana.  He married (2) Susan A. DAILY, 10 Jan 1871, in Floyd County, Indiana, born Mar 1843, Indiana.  1850 census-Harrison County, Indiana. 1860, 1870, 1880 census-Posey Twp., Harrison County, Indiana. Also listed in 1860 Census was Mahala Langsell, Ky. Enumerated with Stephen Stewart and his wife Sarah F. in 1870. Also listed in 1880 Census was Grandson David Cotner, age 1 mo., b.-Indiana.  Sarah: Buried in Glaze-Applegate-Lutz cemetery.  Susan: Some records show her name as Susan Case.

                             Children:

            33.     i      John W. BLUNK, born Abt    1838, Kentucky.

            34.     ii    Etta M. BLUNK, born Abt    1861, Indiana.

            35.     iii   Elizabeth BLUNK, born Abt    1868, Indiana.

        +  36.     iv    Mary Ann BLUNK born Sep 1871.

            37.     v     Taylor F. BLUNK, born Dec 1879, Indiana.  1900 census-Posey Twp., Harrison County, Indiana; enumerated with Harrison LaDuke, listed as son.

Third Generation

13.  Elizabeth BLUNK, born 25 Sep 1823.  She married John HICKMAN, born 23 Jan 1814, died 04 May 1888, buried: Edwardsville, Floyd County, Indiana.  Elizabeth died 09 Feb 1895, Floyd County, Indiana, buried: Edwardsville, Floyd County, Indiana.  Buried in Tunnell Hill Cemetery.  John: Buried in Tunnell Hill Cemetery.

                             Children:

            38.     i      George H. HICKMAN, born 11 Sep 1851, died 28 Mar 1872, buried: Franklin Township, Floyd County, Indiana.  Buried in Blunk Cemetery.

14.  Mary BLUNK.  She married John H. EURTON, 10 Apr 1845, in Floyd County, Indiana.  Mary died BF 07 Nov 1870.

                             Children:

            39.     i      Joseph G. EURTON.

            40.     ii    Sarah E. EURTON.

            41.     iii   Francis M. EURTON.

            42.     iv    Peter A. EURTON.

            43.     v     Thomas W. EURTON.

            44.     vi    Emma J. EURTON.

16.  Mahala Marie BLUNK, born 12 Jan 1831, Franklin Township, Floyd County, Indiana.  She married Tertulous CRANDALL, 09 Mar 1848, in Floyd County, Indiana, born 29 Mar 1831, Harrison County, Indiana, died 12 Feb 1891, Georgetown, Floyd County, Indiana, buried: Georgetown, Floyd County, Indiana.  Mahala died 13 Oct 1908, Georgetown, Floyd County, Indiana, buried: 15 Oct 1908, Georgetown, Floyd County, Indiana.  Buried in Wolfe Cemetery.  Tertulous: Buried in Wolfe Cemetery.

                             Children:

            45.     i      Martin CRANDALL, born Abt    1850, Georgetown, Floyd County, Indiana.

            46.     ii    Mary CRANDALL, born Abt    1852, Georgetown, Floyd County, Indiana.

            47.     iii   Lovina CRANDALL, born Abt    1855, Georgetown, Floyd County, Indiana.

            48.     iv    Albert CRANDALL, born Abt    1858, Georgetown, Floyd County, Indiana.

            49.     v     George CRANDALL, born Abt    1860, Georgetown, Floyd County, Indiana.

            50.     vi    Charles E. CRANDALL, born Mar 1862, Georgetown, Floyd County, Indiana.

            51.     vii  Martha CRANDALL, born Abt    1865, Georgetown, Floyd County, Indiana.

            52.     viii Laura May CRANDALL, born 08 Jul 1867, Georgetown, Floyd County, Indiana.

            53.     ix    Eddie CRANDALL, born Abt    1871, Georgetown, Floyd County, Indiana.

17.  Peter Andrew BLUNK, born 06 Apr 1833, Floyd County, Indiana, occupation Farmer.  He married Mary Frances PAYTON, 21 Mar 1856, in Harrison County, Indiana, born 05 Mar 1839, Floyd County, Indiana.  1860 census-Posey Twp., Harrison County, Indiana. 1880 census-Franklin Twp., Floyd County, Indiana.

                             Children:

            54.     i      James H. BLUNK, born Abt    1857, Indiana.  He married Frances G. TABLER, 27 Apr 1881, in Harrison County, Indiana.  One marriage list shows date of 17 April and her initial as "L".

            55.     ii    William F. BLUNK, born Abt    1858, Indiana.

            56.     iii   Peter BLUNK, born Abt    1860, Indiana.

            57.     iv    Joseph N. BLUNK, born Abt    1860, Indiana.  He married Lillie J. SAMPSON, 15 Feb 1891, in Indiana.

            58.     v     Abraham BLUNK, born 06 Apr 1861, New Albany, Floyd County, Indiana.  He married Beatrice HITTLE, born 20 Mar 1882, Spring Hill, Johnson County, Kansas.

            59.     vi    Sarah M. BLUNK, born Abt    1863, Indiana.

            60.     vii  Mary J. BLUNK, born Abt    1864, Indiana.

        +  61.     viii Martha Ellen (Mattie) BLUNK born 26 Oct 1866.

            62.     ix    Thomas A. BLUNK, born Abt    1867, Indiana.

            63.     x     Elizabeth BLUNK, born Abt    1869, Indiana.

            64.     xi    Infant BLUNK, born 14 Mar 1870, Floyd County, Indiana, died 14 Jul 1870, Floyd County, Indiana, buried: Franklin Township, Floyd County, Indiana.  Buried in Blunk Cemetery.

            65.     xii  Charles BLUNK, born Abt    1873, Indiana.

18.  Martha Jane BLUNK, born 18 Jan 1838, Indiana.  She married John Edward SAMPSON, 15 Apr 1857, in Floyd County, Indiana, born 05 Jul 1826, died 08 Oct 1882.  Martha died 31 Mar 1873, Indiana, buried: Franklin Township, Floyd County, Indiana.  Buried in Hope Well Baptist Cemetery.

                             Children:

            66.     i      Mariah SAMPSON, born Abt    1858, Indiana.

            67.     ii    Louisa SAMPSON, born Abt    1860, Indiana.

23.  John Thomas BLUNK, born 01 Jun 1825, Indiana.  He married Catherine MORRIS, 16 Jun 1853, in Harrison County, Indiana, born Abt    1828, Indiana.  John died 26 Jun 1914, Daviess County, Kentucky.  1880 census-Yelvington, Daviess County, Kentucky. 1900 census-Knottsville, Daviess County, Kentucky. 1910 census-Daviess County, Kentucky; liste his name as Thomas, living with his son Robert I. Marriage list shows her name as Mowrer.

                             Children:

        +  68.     i      Andrew Henson BLUNK born 05 Aug 1854.

        +  69.     ii    Robert Ira BLUNK born 28 Oct 1858.

        +  70.     iii   Joseph W. BLUNK born 23 Jan 1861.

25.  Joseph BLUNK, born 02 Nov 1829, Harrison County, Indiana, occupation Farmer.  He married Adeline WRIGHT, 15 Aug 1850, in Harrison County, Indiana, born 16 Apr 1834, Harrison County, Indiana, (daughter of Thomas WRIGHT and Susan GWARTNEY) died 13 Dec 1911, Butler County, Kentucky, buried: Butler County, Kentucky.  Joseph died 17 Feb 1912, Butler County, Kentucky, buried: Butler County, Kentucky.  JOSEPH BLUNK, Butler County, was born November 2, 1833, in Harrison

       County, Ind., where he grew to manhood, and, in 1875, removed to Meade

       County, Ky.; in 1876, to Hancock County; in 1880, to Daviess County,

       and in 1883 he located in Butler County, where he now resides.  His

       father, Andrew Jackson Blunk, a native of Jefferson County, Ky., died

       in 1877, at the age of seventy years.  He was the son of Andrew Blunk,

       who was born in Virginia, and was a soldier in the war of 1812.

       Andrew J. married Mary, daughter of Henson and Jane Johnson of

       Harrison County, Ind. (died in 1873, aged seventy years).  Their

       offspring were John, Henson (died in the Mexican war), Joseph, Jane

       (Farnsley), Andrew, Levi, Amos and William.  Joseph Blunk procured a

       common English education in youth.  He was married August 15, 1850, to

       Adaline, daughter of Thomas and Susan (Gwartney) Wright, of Harrison

       County, Ind. (born April 16, 1834), and to them have been born William

       T., Mary E. (widow of Charley Fransell), Levi H., Andrew J., Susan E.

       (Renfrow), John S., Minnie M. and Virginia B.  Mr. Blunk is a farmer

       owning 259 acres of land in a good state of cultivation.

       1860 census-Clark Twp., Perry County, Indiana. 1870 census-Posey Twp, Harrison County, Indiana. 1900 & 1910 census-Butler County, Kentucky. (Two children died before 1910). Buried in Blunk Cemetery, Hwy 70, W of Jetson on Oval Lindsey farm. Tombstone inscribed: "May he rest in peace".  Adeline: Buried in Blunk Cemetery, Hwy 70, W of Jetson on Oval Lindsey farm. Tombstone inscription: "We will meet again".

                             Children:

        +  71.     i      William Thomas BLUNK born 28 Jul 1851.

            72.     ii    Mary Ellen BLUNK, born Abt    1853, Indiana.  She married Charles FRANCELL, 03 Oct 1876, in Oldham County, Kentucky.

        +  73.     iii   Levi Henson BLUNK born 20 Mar 1856.

        +  74.     iv    Susan E. BLUNK born 25 Mar 1861.

            75.     v     Andrew J. BLUNK, born Jan 1866, Indiana.  1910 census-Butler County, Kentucky; listed living alone. 1920 census-Butler County, Kentucky; listed with Ira Hershel Blunk (Son of Levi H. BLUNK).

        +  76.     vi    John S. BLUNK born Aug 1867.

            77.     vii  Minnie M. BLUNK, born Abt    1867, Indiana.  She married Thomas Jefferson LANGDON, 21 Dec 1893, in Rockport, Spencer County, Indiana.

        +  78.     viii Virginia BLUNK born 05 Nov 1869.

28.  Andrew J. BLUNK, born Abt    1835, Indiana.  He married Sarah A. BRACE, born Aug 1842, Indiana.  Andrew died 29 Jul 1893, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky, buried: 31 Jul 1893, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  1880 census-Lewisport, Hancock County, Kentucky. Also listed in the 1880 census was Susan C. Brace, step-daughter, 22, born in Indiana, and William G. Brace, 18, step-son, 18, born in Indiana. Buried in Cave Hill Cemetery - National Cemetery, tombstone indicates "Cpl, Co M, 1 Mich, Lt Arty, July 29,1893".  Sarah: 1900 census-Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky; living with her son Robert E. L. Blunk.

                             Children:

            79.     i      Jennie BLUNK, born Abt    1869, Kentucky.

        +  80.     ii    Robert E. Lee BLUNK born Sep 1871.

        +  81.     iii   Eugene Murray BLUNK born May 1875.

            82.     iv    Matin L. BLUNK, born Abt    1879, Kentucky.

29.  Levi BLUNK, born 09 Sep 1837, Harrison County, Indiana, occupation Farmer.  He married (1) Sarah Elizabeth BAILEY, 07 May 1864, in Floyd County, Indiana, died 10 Mar 1871, Daviess County, Kentucky.  He married (2) Martha J. SCHAFER, 07 Mar 1872, in Harrison County, Indiana, born Nov 1851, Indiana, died 20 Nov 1930, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  Levi died 06 Feb 1923, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  LEVI BLUNK was the seventh in a family of nine children born to Andrew and

       Mary (Johnson) Blunk, the former born in Jefferson County, Kentucky, and the

       latter of Virginia.  Andrew Blunk was son of Andrew and Mary (Calhoun) Blunk,

       the latter a blood relation to John C. Calhoun, the famous South Carolina

       statesman, and the former a pioneer who was known far and wide.  He was well

       acquainted with Adam Poe, the borderer who killed the noted Indian chief "Big

       Foot," in a hand-to-hand fight;  was also a compeer of Daniel Boone, Crawford,

       Dr. Knight, Slover, etc.; he was Revolutionary soldier in the Virginia Line,

       and took part in many of the famous battles of that long contest.  Mary

       (Johnson) Blunk was a daughter of Henson and Jane Johnson.  Levi, whose whose

       name heads this sketch, was born September 9, 1837.  He was reared on the

       farm; and received such education as the common schools afforded; together

       with the advantages of a select school at Elizabeth, this county.  One of his

       brothers was a soldier in the Mexican war, and died there (at Brazos

       Santiago),  August 6, 1846. Levi enlisted July 16, 1861, in Co. K,

       Twenty-fifth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and was discharged December 5, 1862,

       on account of disability.  He was married May 8, 1864, to Miss Sarah E.,

       daughter of James Bailey, Esq., and removed to Daviess county, Kentucky.  She

       bore three children, viz : Nettie C., born May 20,1866; Mary J., March 20,

       1868; John T., November 11, 1870, and died March 10, 1871.  Mr. Blunk moved

       back to Harrison county, and March 7, 1872, was married to Miss Martha J.

       Shafer. Of this second marriage were born six children, viz: Andrew J., Ela

       M., Levi G., Frank L., Elsa P., and Grover Cleveland; all of whom are living

       except Frank L., who died August 15, 1881.  Mr. Blunk lives upon the old

       homestead where he was born, and owns 160 acres of good land.

      

       **From the BIOGRAPHICAL AND HISTORICAL SOUVENIR FOR THE COUNTIES OF CLARK,

       CRAWFORD, HARRISON, FLOYD, JEFFERSON, JENNINGS, SCOTT, AND WASHINGTON, INDIANA

       (Chicago, 1889)**

       1880 census-Webster Twp., Harrison County, Indiana. 1900 census-Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky. 1920 census, Harrison County, Indiana.

                             Children:

            83.     i      Annettie C.(Kitty) BLUNK, born 20 May 1866, Daviess County, Kentucky.  She married Louis KOUSLER, 08 Nov 1885, in Harrison County, Indiana.

            84.     ii    Mary J. BLUNK, born 20 Mar 1868, Daviess County, Kentucky.  She married James M. FINK, 17 Jun 1890, in Indiana.

        +  85.     iii   John Thomas BLUNK born 11 Nov 1870.

            86.     iv    Andrew J. BLUNK, born 28 Oct 1873, Harrison County, Indiana.  He married Mary Josephine KANNAPEL, 14 Apr 1896, in Harrison County, Indiana, born Abt    1879, Indiana.  Andrew died 01 Apr 1913, Webster Twp, Harrison County, Indiana, buried: Webster Twp, Harrison County, Indiana.  Mary: 1920 census - Harrison County, Indiana; living with brother Guy Kannapel.

            87.     v     Ella M. BLUNK, born Mar 1876, Harrison County, Indiana, died 18 Jul 1949, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  1910 census-Jefferson County, Kentucky; her sister Pearl was listed living with her. Married a Grabler, probably Leonard.

        +  88.     vi    Levi Gabriel BLUNK born 26 Aug 1878.

            89.     vii  Frank L. BLUNK, died 15 Aug 1881.  Buried in the Blunk Cemetery, Hendricks County, Indiana.

            90.     viii Pearl Elsa BLUNK, born 06 Oct 1882, Indiana, died 26 Dec 1975, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky, buried: 27 Dec 1975, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  1910 census-Jefferson County, Kentucky; living with her sister Ella. 1920 census-Jefferson County, Kentucky; Living with Leonard Grabler (SIL). SSN 403-03-3196. Buried in Resthaven Cemetery.

            91.     ix    Grover Cleveland BLUNK, born Feb 1888, Indiana, died 07 Mar 1912, Jackson Twp, Harrison County, Indiana.

            92.     x     Adlai Stevenson BLUNK, born 08 Oct 1892, Indiana.  He married Elizabeth M. OBRIEN, born 09 Nov 1908, (daughter of Eugene L. OBRIEN and _____ _____) occupation Social Worker, died 21 Apr 1992, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky, buried: 24 Apr 1992, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  Adlai died 11 Mar 1974, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky, buried: 14 Mar 1974, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  Founded the A.S. Blunk Heating & A/C Co. in 1920. Served in the US Army WW I & WW II. Retired as President of the company in 1971. Buried in Resthaven Cemetery. SSN# 402-44-1018.  Elizabeth: Buried in Cave Hill Cemetery, Section 34, Lot 309. Obit indicates burial in Resthaven Memorial Park. She was survived by her mother!

30.  Amos BLUNK, born 19 Apr 1841, Harrison County, Indiana.  He married Martha PAYTON, 09 Feb 1860, in Harrison County, Indiana, born May 1842, Indiana, died 21 Dec 1932, Crandall, Indiana.  Amos died Feb 1922, New Albany, Floyd County, Indiana.  1870 census-Webster Twp., Harrison County, Indiana. 1880 census-Webster-New Middletown, Harrison County, Indiana. 1900 census-Jackson Twp, Harrison County, Indiana. 1920 census, Harrison County, Indiana.

                             Children:

            93.     i      Mary J. BLUNK, born Abt    1858, Indiana.  She married (1) _____ _____, 03 Nov 1889, in Indiana.  She married (2) _____ _____, 01 Sep 1891, in Indiana.

            94.     ii    Clara A. BLUNK, born Abt    1860, Indiana.

        +  95.     iii   Margaret Ellen BLUNK born 07 Aug 1864.

            96.     iv    Della (Hattie) BLUNK, born Abt    1866, Indiana.  She married Wallace E. SIMS, 28 Oct 1888, in Indiana.  1880 Census and marriage data has her name as Della.

        +  97.     v     Levi W. BLUNK born Abt    1868.

            98.     vi    James BLUNK, born Abt    1871, Indiana.

            99.     vii  Emma BLUNK, born Abt    1872, Indiana.

        +  100.   viii Walter R. BLUNK born 03 Apr 1876.

            101.   ix    Warden BLUNK, born Jul 1878, Indiana.

            102.   x     Nora BLUNK, born Oct 1879, Indiana.  She married Clarence SIMS, 19 Nov 1896, in Indiana.

36.  Mary Ann BLUNK, born Sep 1871, Floyd County, Indiana.  She married William Woodford LAWSON, 15 Dec 1886, in Harrison County, Indiana.

                             Children:

            103.   i      Goldie Pearl LAWSON, born 21 Feb 1881(?), ELizabeth, Harrison County, Indiana.

            104.   ii    Johnie Raymond LAWSON, born 10 Dec 1889, ELizabeth, Harrison County, Indiana.

            105.   iii   Lena K. LAWSON, born 12 Feb 1896, ELizabeth, Harrison County, Indiana.

            106.   iv    Paul E. LAWSON, born 04 Aug 1897, ELizabeth, Harrison County, Indiana.

            107.   v     Silas Woodford LAWSON, born 11 Mar 1900, ELizabeth, Harrison County, Indiana.

            108.   vi    Laura M. LAWSON, born 24 Nov 1902, ELizabeth, Harrison County, Indiana.

            109.   vii  Harold E. LAWSON, born 18 Mar 1905, ELizabeth, Harrison County, Indiana.

            110.   viii James H. LAWSON, born 18 May 1906, ELizabeth, Harrison County, Indiana.

            111.   ix    William Woodford LAWSON, born 14 Oct 1908, ELizabeth, Harrison County, Indiana.

            112.   x     Mary LAWSON, born 16 Dec 1910, ELizabeth, Harrison County, Indiana.

            113.   xi    Ruth LAWSON, born 03 Jan 1914, ELizabeth, Harrison County, Indiana.

Fourth Generation

61.  Martha Ellen (Mattie) BLUNK, born 26 Oct 1866, New Albany, Floyd County, Indiana.  She married Daniel Butler HATTON, 21 Feb 1892, in Fremont County, Iowa, born 06 Apr 1856, Adams County, Illinois, died 30 Jan 1945, Woodbine, Harrison County, Iowa.  Martha died 28 Dec 1906, Hamburg, Fremont County, Iowa.

                             Children:

            114.   i      Alta HATTON.

        +  115.   ii    Lorayne HATTON born 1896.

68.  Andrew Henson BLUNK, born 05 Aug 1854, Indiana.  He married Charlotte E. _____, born Apr 1864, Missouri, died 30 Jul 1940, Daviess County, Kentucky.  Andrew died 14 Jan 1903.  1900, 1910, 1920 census-Knottsville, Daviess County, Kentucky. Living alone in 1910 census.

                             Children:

            116.   i      Claude L. BLUNK, born 17 May 1902, Kentucky, died 01 Oct 1970, Kansas City, Jackson County, Missouri.  SSN 400-20-7150. Living in Daviess County - 1920 Census.

        +  117.   ii    Maude BLUNK born 17 May 1902.

69.  Robert Ira BLUNK, born 28 Oct 1858, Daviess County, Kentucky.  He married Lena _____, born 16 Oct 1857, Indiana, died 25 Jun 1920, Daviess County, Kentucky.  Robert died 19 Jun 1932, Christian County, Kentucky.  1900, 1910 census-Knottsville, Daviess County, Kentucky.  Lena: Died of acute indigestion.

                             Children:

        +  118.   i      John BLUNK born 28 Sep 1892.

        +  119.   ii    Julia BLUNK born May 1894.

70.  Joseph W. BLUNK, born 23 Jan 1861, Kentucky.  He married Laura _____, born Sep 1870, Indiana.  Joseph died 07 Jul 1929, Daviess County, Kentucky.  1900, 1910, 1920 Census-Knottsville, Daviess County, Kentucky. Listed as J.E. in 1900 Census, Joseph W. in 1910, and James W. in 1920. Son William, DL-Winnie, GD-Mary Ellen living with them in 1920.

                             Children:

            120.   i      Guy BLUNK, born 12 Jun 1896, Kentucky, died 25 Aug 1969, Daviess County, Kentucky.  SSN 405-16-8463.

        +  121.   ii    William BLUNK born Aug 1899.

71.  William Thomas BLUNK, born 28 Jul 1851, Indiana.  He married Elizabeth Elvira LANGDON, 02 Aug 1882, in Rockport, Spencer County, Indiana, born Abt    1863, Indiana.  William died 10 Feb 1932, Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana, buried: 12 Feb 1932, Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana.  1920 census - Evansville, Vanderburg County, Indiana; also listed were William Conway, 17, and Millard Conway. 16.

                             Children:

            122.   i      Annie Adeline BLUNK, born 04 Jul 1883, Rockport, Spencer County, Indiana.

        +  123.   ii    Mary Lucy BLUNK born 28 May 1885.

            124.   iii   Nellie Marsylvania BLUNK, born 09 Feb 1887, Butler County, Kentucky.

            125.   iv    Celia Agnes BLUNK, born 28 Nov 1888, Rockport, Spencer County, Indiana.

            126.   v     Francis BLUNK, born 29 Nov 1890, Rockport, Spencer County, Indiana.

            127.   vi    Edna Helen BLUNK, born 24 Jun 1893, Rockport, Spencer County, Indiana.

            128.   vii  Estella BLUNK, born 27 May 1895, Rockport, Spencer County, Indiana.

            129.   viii Eva Lena BLUNK, born 12 Feb 1897, Rockport, Spencer County, Indiana.

            130.   ix    Ruth BLUNK, born 24 Sep 1899, Rockport, Spencer County, Indiana.

            131.   x     William Auther BLUNK, born 01 Aug 1901, Rockport, Spencer County, Indiana, died 28 Aug 1902, Rockport, Spencer County, Indiana.

            132.   xi    Levi Langdon BLUNK, born 26 Jun 1903, Rockport, Spencer County, Indiana.

            133.   xii  Henrietta Juanita BLUNK, born 26 Nov 1905, Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana.

73.  Levi Henson BLUNK, born 20 Mar 1856, Harrison County, Indiana.  He married Symantha RENFROW, born 30 Jan 1867, Butler County, Kentucky, died 21 Apr 1950, Butler County, Kentucky, buried: Butler County, Kentucky.  Levi died 14 Feb 1907, Butler County, Kentucky, buried: Butler County, Kentucky.  1900 census-Butler County, Kentucky. Buried in Blunk Cemetery, Hwy 70, W of Jetson on Oval Lindsey farm. Tombstone inscription: "How much light, How much joy is buried with our darling boy".  Symantha: 1910 census-Breckinridge County, Kentucky. 1920 census-Butler County, Kentucky 1920 Census and tombstone lists her first name as Mantha. Buried in Blunk Cemetery, Hwy 70, W of Jetson on Oval Lindsey farm.

                             Children:

        +  134.   i      Ira Hershel BLUNK born 27 Apr 1890.

        +  135.   ii    John C. BLUNK born 19 Feb 1893.

        +  136.   iii   Kelly Estill BLUNK born 11 Oct 1895.

        +  137.   iv    Charlie Escar BLUNK born 04 Mar 1901.

            138.   v     Oba G. BLUNK, born Abt    1905, Kentucky, died 30 Mar 1947, Butler County, Kentucky.  1920 Census list name as Obey. Vital Stats (death) lists name as Obie.

74.  Susan E. BLUNK, born 25 Mar 1861, Harrison County, Indiana.  She married Starling Columbus RENFROW, 11 Oct 1883, in Butler County, Kentucky, born 08 Sep 1861, Butler County, Kentucky, died 28 May 1922, Butler County, Kentucky.  Susan died 17 Feb 1924, Butler County, Kentucky.  Starling: 1920 census-Butler County, Kentucky.

                             Children:

            139.   i      John Thomas RENFROW, born 11 Jul 1884, Kentucky.  He married Laura M. BRYANT, born 19 Jan 1896, baptized 17 Jun 1979.  John died 27 Feb 1973, Kentucky.

            140.   ii    James Curtis RENFROW, born 18 May 1886, Kentucky.  He married Lutie C. EMBRY, born Abt    1893, died 1978.  James died 14 Feb 1965, Ohio County, Kentucky.  Another source lists death date as 20 Sep 1917.

            141.   iii   Joseph Washington RENFROW, born 27 Jun 1888, Kentucky.  He married Verda CUMMINGS, born Abt    1903.  Joseph died 22 May 1971, Livermore, Mclain County, Kentucky.

            142.   iv    Eula Myrtle RENFROW, born 24 Jul 1890, Kentucky.  She married Kelly BOLTON, born 16 Nov 1888, Butler County, Kentucky, died Iowa.  Eula died 10 Oct 1965.

            143.   v     Louis Cleveland RENFROW, born 20 Mar 1893, Kentucky.  He married Maggie MUDD.  Louis died 06 Jun 1935.

            144.   vi    Charles Frances RENFROW, born 18 Jun 1896, Kentucky.  He married Ruby Mae WHITTINGHILL, born 10 Oct 1913, died 18 Jan 1971.  Charles died 27 Jan 1966, Butler County, Kentucky.

            145.   vii  Nellie Ray RENFROW, born 18 Jun 1896, Kentucky, died 24 Jun 1912, Butler County, Kentucky.

            146.   viii William Herbert RENFROW, born 13 Mar 1899, Kentucky.  He married Katie ANDERSON, born Abt    1904.  William died 09 Sep 1977, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky.

        +  147.   ix    Estella Pearl RENFROW born 29 Aug 1901.

            148.   x     Fredrick Gillian RENFROW, born 31 Jan 1904, Lee, Butler County, Kentucky.  He married Eva ROWE, 12 Apr 1924, in Jeffersonville, Clark County, Indiana, born 16 Jul 1906, Ohio County, Kentucky, died 01 Apr 1985, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  Fredrick died 21 Apr 1951, Prentiss, Ohio County, Kentucky.

            149.   xi    Starling RENFROW, born Abt    1912, Kentucky.

            150.   xii  James E. RENFROW, born 11 Mar 1913, Kentucky, died 05 Aug 1986, Morgantown, Butler County, Kentucky.  SSN 406-74-7234.

            151.   xiii Stanley RENFROW, born Abt    1916, Kentucky.

76.  John S. BLUNK, born Aug 1867, Indiana.  He married Ida RENFROW, born Feb 1878, Butler County, Kentucky, died 1922.  John died 10 Aug 1939, Butler County, Kentucky.  1910 census-Butler County, Kentucky; enumerated with Starling Renfrow.  Ida: 1910 census-Breckinridge County, Kentucky; enumerated with SIL, Catherine Renfrow. 1920 census-Butler County, Kentucky; also listed, son Eldon Parrish, 17, Ky.

                             Children:

            152.   i      Harry James BLUNK, born Abt    1902, Kentucky.

            153.   ii    William C. BLUNK, born Abt    1908, Kentucky.

78.  Virginia BLUNK, born 05 Nov 1869, Indiana.  She married _____ DEWEESE.  Virginia died 21 Jan 1911, Butler County, Kentucky, buried: Butler County, Kentucky.  Listed with her father in 1880 census. Buried in the Blunk Cemetery, Highway 70, West of Jetson on Oval Lindsey Farm. Tombstone spells the name Deweese.  _____: Some records spell the name Dewees; Kentucky death records of his children spell the name Deweese.

                             Children:

            154.   i      Clyde DEWEESE, born 01 Jul 1892, Kentucky, died 01 Mar 1991, Ohio County, Kentucky.  His home was in Butler County.

            155.   ii    Clarence F. DEWEESE, born 14 May 1896, Kentucky, died 26 Feb 1972, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  Lived in Edmonson County at time of death.

            156.   iii   Claborn DEWEESE, born Oct 1898, Kentucky.

            157.   iv    Estill Clay DEWEESE, born 21 Mar 1899, Kentucky, died 20 Aug 1962, Daviess County, Kentucky, buried: Butler County, Kentucky.  Served in the U.S. Navy during World War 1. Buried in the Blunk Cemetery, Highway 70, west of Jetson on Oval Lindsey Farm. Lived in Indiana at time of death.

80.  Robert E. Lee BLUNK, born Sep 1871, Kentucky.  He married Minnie B. ABBOTT, 14 Sep 1901, in Floyd County, Indiana, born Abt    1872, Indiana, (daughter of George ABBOTT and Charlotte _____). Robert died BF     1941.  1910 census - New Albany, Floyd County, Indiana. Enumerated with her parents. 1920 census, Floyd County, Indiana; also living with him was his mother-in-law Charlotte Abbott, age 69, born in Kentucky.  Minnie: Living in New Albany, Floyd County, Indiana in 1941.

                             Children:

            158.   i      William BLUNK, born Abt    1902, Kentucky.

            159.   ii    Robert BLUNK, born Abt    1905, Kentucky.

81.  Eugene Murray BLUNK, born May 1875, Kentucky.  He married Lucy L. MILLER, born Aug 1877, Kentucky, (daughter of _____ MILLER and Marion _____). 1900, 1910 census-Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky. Listed in 1900 as Murray E.; also listed, ML Marion Miller, Dec 1854, Ark.; SL Elizabeth M. Miller, Mar 1882, Ky.; Donna V. Miller, Sep 1884, Md. 1920 census-Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky.

                             Children:

            160.   i      Murray Lee BLUNK, Jr., born Mar 1895, Kentucky, died 15 Sep 1912, Jefferson County, Kentucky, buried: 17 Sep 1912, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  Jr. designation may be in error. Buried in Cave Hill Cemetery.

            161.   ii    Francis M. BLUNK, born Dec 1896, Kentucky.

        +  162.   iii   Violet BLUNK born Mar 1899.

            163.   iv    George A. BLUNK, born Abt    1902, Kentucky.

            164.   v     Elizabeth A. BLUNK, born Abt    1905, Kentucky.

            165.   vi    Lucille V. BLUNK, born Abt    1908, Kentucky.

            166.   vii  Glen Harold BLUNK, born 20 Dec 1916, Jefferson County, Kentucky.

85.  John Thomas BLUNK, born 11 Nov 1870, Daviess County, Kentucky, occupation Barber.  He married Daisy S. BUTLER, born 02 Sep 1881, died Sep 1982, Los Angeles, L. A. County, California.  John died 17 Nov 1928, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky, buried: 19 Nov 1928, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  1880 census, Indiana. 1900 census, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky. 1920 Census, Harrison County, Indiana. Buried in Cave Hill Cemetery, Section 18, Row 361, Lot 8. Killed by gunshot wound to the chest. Shot by a policeman.  Daisy: SSN 406-07-1624. Her spouse's death certificate spells her name as Dassie.

                             Children:

            167.   i      John B. BLUNK, born Abt    1908, Indiana.

            168.   ii    Winifred D. BLUNK, born 01 Jan 1910, Indiana, died Nov 1982, Los Angeles, L. A. County, California.  SSN 403-10-5410.

88.  Levi Gabriel BLUNK, born 26 Aug 1878, Harrison County, Indiana.  He married Isabella Louise WESTPHALL, 21 Sep 1909, in Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky, born Abt    1884, died 16 Nov 1964, Jefferson County, Kentucky, buried: 20 Nov 1964, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  Levi died 10 Sep 1973, Jefferson County, Kentucky, buried: 13 Sep 1973, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  1920 census-Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky. SSN 402-44-1017 Buried in Cave Hill Cemetery, Part W 1/2, Lot 195, Section 21.  Isabella: Buried in Cave Hill Cemetery, Part W 1/2, Lot 195, Section 21.

                             Children:

            169.   i      Levi Gabriel BLUNK, Jr., born Abt    1911, Kentucky.  He married (1) Violet V. _____, born Abt    1911, died 02 Oct 1947, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  He married (2) Elizabeth A. _____.

        +  170.   ii    Elveria L. BLUNK born 14 Oct 1913.

            171.   iii   John Herman BLUNK, born 07 Aug 1915, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  He married Frances KERNOLD, born Abt    1915, died 21 Jan 1989, Jefferson County, Kentucky, buried: 08 May 1989, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  Frances: Buried in Cave Hill Cemetery.

95.  Margaret Ellen BLUNK, born 07 Aug 1864, Harrison County, Indiana.  She married Henry Harrison APPLEGATE, 02 Dec 1883, in Indiana, born Dec 1861, Harrison County, Indiana, died 14 Apr 1906, Corydon, Harrison County, Indiana, buried: Harrison County, Indiana.  Margaret died 27 Sep 1956, Jeffersonville, Clark County, Indiana, buried: Harrison County, Indiana.  Buried in Cedar Hill Cemetery.  Henry: Buried in Pfrimmers Cemetery.

                             Children:

            172.   i      Robert Amos APPLEGATE, born 19 Dec 1893, died 17 Jun 1955.

            173.   ii    Cordelia A. APPLEGATE, born 21 Aug 1895, died 31 Mar 1979.

            174.   iii   _____ APPLEGATE, born 10 Mar 1896.

            175.   iv    Ward Raymond APPLEGATE, born 03 Aug 1897, died 17 Jun 1972.

            176.   v     _____ APPLEGATE, born 10 Apr 1902, Harrison County, Indiana, died Apr 1902, Harrison County, Indiana.

            177.   vi    Catherine APPLEGATE, born 10 Apr 1902, Harrison County, Indiana, died 18 Aug 1999.

97.  Levi W. BLUNK, born Abt    1868, Indiana.  He married Donia Aloria EMILY, 04 Jul 1892, in Harrison County, Indiana, (divorced) born 09 Oct 1876, Harrison County, Indiana, died 05 Jan 1946, Harrison County, Indiana, buried: Harrison County, Indiana.  Donia: Buried in Hursttown Cemetery.

                             Children:

        +  178.   i      Lucy May BLUNK born 29 Sep 1892.

        +  179.   ii    Amos W. BLUNK born 12 Feb 1894.

        +  180.   iii   Mattie Marie BLUNK born 15 Dec 1895.

100.  Walter R. BLUNK, born 03 Apr 1876, Indiana.  He married (1) May O. CHURCHMAN, 01 May 1898, in Indiana.  He married (2) Katura B. HECK, born Abt    1892, Ohio.  Walter died Apr 1970, New Albany, Floyd County, Indiana.  1900 census-Monroe Twp., Madison County, Indiana. SSN 308-14-5078. 1920 census, Wayne County, Indiana; also listed was his father-in-law Marion F. Heck, 77, born in Ohio.  Katura: One census lists her name as Katrina.

                             Children:

            181.   i      Archie BLUNK, born Jul 1899, Indiana.

            182.   ii    Bonnetta (Bonnie) M. BLUNK, born Abt    1910, Ohio.  She married _____ JEFFRIES.

            183.   iii   Clifford E. BLUNK, born 14 Mar 1918, Indiana.  He married Mary AMACHER.  Clifford died 04 Sep 1971, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky, buried: 07 Sep 1971, New Albany, Floyd County, Indiana.  Buried in Fairview Cemetery. SSN 311-01-4087. Obit indicates two half-sisters in Los Angeles, California - Mrs. Nova Oaks & Mrs. Deloris Moore.

            184.   iv    Charles BLUNK.

Fifth Generation

115.  Lorayne HATTON, born 1896, Fremont County, Iowa.  She married _____ LOYD.  Lorayne died 1994.  She was ten when her mother died.

                             Children:

            185.   i      Rosemary LOYD.

117.  Maude BLUNK, born 17 May 1902, Daviess County, Kentucky.  She married Roscoe Wilburn CHAPPELL, born Jul 1899, Hancock County, Kentucky, (son of John Colunbus CHAPPELL and Hattie A. RICE) died 09 Jul 1980, Owensboro, Daviess County, Kentucky.  Maude died 24 Feb 1982, Ohio County, Kentucky.

                             Children:

            186.   i      Robert Lee CHAPPELL.

118.  John BLUNK, born 28 Sep 1892, Kentucky.  He married Jessie May CHAPPELL, 26 Aug 1914, born 12 Nov 1894, Kentucky, (daughter of John Colunbus CHAPPELL and Hattie A. RICE) died 25 Nov 1983, Daviess County, Kentucky.  John died 03 Apr 1988, Maceo, Daviess County, Kentucky.  SSN 401-52-2328. SSN file lists birth year as 1891.  Jessie: SSN 402-90-7845

                             Children:

            187.   i      Laura L. BLUNK, born 23 Aug 1918, Daviess County, Kentucky, died 13 Feb 1989, Daviess County, Kentucky.  SSN 404-18-7229.

            188.   ii    Lena M. BLUNK, born 21 Nov 1920, Daviess County, Kentucky.

        +  189.   iii   Hattie Mabel BLUNK born 09 Oct 1923.

            190.   iv    John W. BLUNK, born 23 Oct 1929, Daviess County, Kentucky.

        +  191.   v     Bessie M. BLUNK born 21 Apr 1932.

119.  Julia BLUNK, born May 1894, Kentucky.  She married _____ PARKER.

                             Children:

            192.   i      Joe PARKER, born 13 Jul 1921, Daviess County, Kentucky.

121.  William BLUNK, born Aug 1899, Kentucky.  He married Winnie BANKS, born Abt    1902, Kentucky.  William died 16 Jul 1971, Daviess County, Kentucky.

                             Children:

            193.   i      Mary Ellen BLUNK, born 16 Jun 1919, Daviess County, Kentucky.

123.  Mary Lucy BLUNK, born 28 May 1885, Butler County, Kentucky.  She married Charles William DANIELS, 22 Oct 1906, in Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana, born 08 Aug 1883, Owensboro, Daviess County, Kentucky, (son of John Henry DANIELS and Victoria M. FRAZIER) died 18 Jul 1971, Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana, buried: Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana.  Mary died 11 Aug 1963, Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana, buried: Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana.

                             Children:

        +  194.   i      William Thomas DANIELS born 28 Oct 1907.

            195.   ii    Elizabeth Victoria DANIELS, born 14 Jul 1909, Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana.

            196.   iii   Charles Henry DANIELS, born 18 Jan 1912, Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana.

            197.   iv    Mary Kate DANIELS, born 08 Jun 1915, Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana.

            198.   v     Hester Marjorie DANIELS, born 04 Sep 1923, Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana.

134.  Ira Hershel BLUNK, born 27 Apr 1890, Butler County, Kentucky.  He married Elsie Rae ELMORE, 17 Nov 1912, in Butler County, Kentucky, born 02 Sep 1897, Butler County, Kentucky, died 05 Apr 1944, Lawrence County, Indiana.  Ira died 06 Mar 1967, Mitchell, Lawrence County, Indiana.  1920 census-Butler County, Kentucky; also, BO-Anda Blunk, 62, Indiana. SSN 310-07-0884.

                             Children:

            199.   i      Gertrude BLUNK, born 20 Aug 1914, Butler County, Kentucky.

            200.   ii    Joseph BLUNK, born 08 Apr 1915, Butler County, Kentucky.

            201.   iii   Hastel BLUNK, born Abt    1917, Kentucky.

            202.   iv    Wilbur G. BLUNK, born 02 Feb 1919, Butler County, Kentucky, died Nov 1966.  SSN 309-12-5552.

        +  203.   v     Ira Randle BLUNK born 30 Jul 1921.

            204.   vi    Gradie BLUNK, born 06 Dec 1923, Butler County, Kentucky.

        +  205.   vii  Charles Rayburn BLUNK born 20 Jan 1927.

135.  John C. BLUNK, born 19 Feb 1893, Kentucky.  He married Dona B. LINDSEY, born Abt    1902, Kentucky, died 24 Mar 1964, Butler County, Kentucky.  John died 21 Jul 1971, Butler County, Kentucky.  1920 census-Butler County, Kentucky. SSN 405-03-4692.

                             Children:

            206.   i      Glespie BLUNK, born 10 May 1920, Butler County, Kentucky, died 10 Jan 1990, Butler County, Kentucky.  SSN 401-12-6215. SSN file spells his name "Glaspy".

            207.   ii    Vannie E. BLUNK, born 29 Sep 1928, Butler County, Kentucky, died 02 Mar 1977, Butler County, Kentucky.  SSN 407-34-2652.

136.  Kelly Estill BLUNK, born 11 Oct 1895, Kentucky, occupation Farmer.  He married Martha B. COY, 06 Mar 1920, in Butler County, Kentucky, born 10 Dec 1897, Butler County, Kentucky, died 19 Jan 1985, Jefferson County, Kentucky, buried: 21 Jan 1985, Butler County, Kentucky.  Kelly died 14 Nov 1990, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky, buried: 16 Nov 1990, Butler County, Kentucky.  SSN file spells his name "Estin". Buried in Threlkel Cemetery.  Martha: Buried in the Threlkel Cemetery.

                             Children:

            208.   i      Rauden C. BLUNK, born 24 Apr 1924, Butler County, Kentucky, died 13 Jul 1944, Butler County, Kentucky, buried: Butler County, Kentucky.  Buried in Threlkel Cemetery (Newport). One source lists his name as Randen.

            209.   ii    Estle BLUNK, born 24 Jul 1931, Butler County, Kentucky, died 24 Jul 1931, Butler County, Kentucky.

            210.   iii   Lavonna BLUNK, born 24 Jul 1931, Butler County, Kentucky, died 05 Jul 1936, Butler County, Kentucky, buried: Butler County, Kentucky.  Buried in the Threlkel Cemetery (Newport). One source lists her name as Lavon.

            211.   iv    Urbanna BLUNK, born 05 Aug 1934, Butler County, Kentucky.  She married (1) Maurice P. HOWARD, 1976, divorced 1980.  She married (2) Arlis COOK, 15 Aug 1981, in Ohio County, Kentucky.  She married (3) Ronald L. DAVIS, 1992, divorced 1992.  Divorced Maurice on 04 Jan 1980 in Jefferson County, Kentucky. Divorced Ronald on 06 Oct 1992 in Pulaski County, Kentucky. One source lists her name as Erberra.

            212.   v     Evan C. BLUNK.  Living in Alexandria, Virginia in Jan 1985 & Nov 1990. One source lists his name as Evon.

            213.   vi    Robert BLUNK.

137.  Charlie Escar BLUNK, born 04 Mar 1901, Kentucky.  He married Natie DURBIN, born 26 Mar 1909, Kentucky, died 10 Apr 1976, Edmonson County, Kentucky.  Charlie died 16 Aug 1994, Bowling Green, Warren County, Kentucky, buried: 19 Aug 1994, Morgantown, Butler County, Kentucky.  SSN 405-03-4693.  Natie: SSN 406-48-6108.

                             Children:

        +  214.   i      Josie E. BLUNK born 07 Jul 1925.

        +  215.   ii    Earline BLUNK born Abt    1926.

        +  216.   iii   Noah E. BLUNK born 27 Jun 1928.

            217.   iv    Chesterine BLUNK, born 14 Jan 1933, Kentucky.  Buried in Threlkel Cemetery, Butler County, Kentucky.

            218.   v     Eulen R. BLUNK, born 26 Mar 1939, Butler County, Kentucky.  She married _____ JONES.

            219.   vi    Nelma N. BLUNK, born 12 Feb 1942, Butler County, Kentucky.  She married Rumsey W. HARDIN, 14 Dec 1973, in Edmonson County, Kentucky.

        +  220.   vii  Reona BLUNK born 11 Mar 1944.

            221.   viii Cula M. BLUNK, born 02 Oct 1946, Butler County, Kentucky.

147.  Estella Pearl RENFROW, born 29 Aug 1901, Kentucky.  She married James Eldon PARRISH, (son of Leander PARRISH and Ida RENFROW). Estella died 22 Oct 1995, Roundhill, Butler County, Kentucky.

                             Children:

            222.   i      James Herbert PARRISH.

162.  Violet BLUNK, born Mar 1899, Kentucky.  She married _____ MCGILL.  Also listed with him in the 1900 census was his mother-in-law Marion Miller, b. Dec 1854 in Arkansas; Elizabeth Miller, sister-in-law, b. Mar 1882 in Kentucky; Donna V. Miller, sister-in-law, b.Sep 1884 in Maryland.

                             Children:

            223.   i      Marion F. MCGILL, born 06 Feb 1920, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky.

170.  Elveria L. BLUNK, born 14 Oct 1913, Jefferson County, Kentucky, occupation Bookkeeper.  She married _____ MARTY.  Elveria died 19 Jun 1999, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky, buried: 22 Jun 1999, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  Louisville Courier-Journal, Published  6/20/1999

        

         Elvera B. Marty of Jefferson Manor died there Saturday. She was

         a retired bookkeeper for the Diehl Pump Co. and a member of First

         Church of Christ, Scientist. Survivors: a son, William F. Marty;

         brothers John H. and L. Gabriel Blunk; three grandchildren; and

         a great-grandchild. Memorial service: 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Pearson's,

         149 Breckenridge Lane. Private burial: Cave Hill. Visitation: after

         2 p.m. Tuesday. Memorial gifts: her church or Goodwill Industries.

        

         Spouse is probably William F. Marty, born 06 Sep 1907, died 13 Jul 1981 in Louisville; SSN 400-05-7351.

                             Children:

            224.   i      William F. MARTY.

            225.   ii    Jeanne M. MARTY, born 04 Nov 1943, Jefferson County, Kentucky.

178.  Lucy May BLUNK, born 29 Sep 1892, Harrison County, Indiana.  She married (1) Charles J. PINAIRE, 02 Sep 1909, in Harrison County, Indiana, (divorced) born 04 Apr 1887, Harrison County, Indiana, died 19 Jun 1968, Harrison County, Indiana, buried: Harrison County, Indiana.  She married (2) Sam HOUSTON.  She married (3) George H. PROCTOR, 08 Dec 1929.  She married (4) Emil MANTEUFFEL, 1955, born 15 Mar 1882, died 07 May 1963, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  Lucy died 02 Sep 1963, Floyd County, Indiana, buried: Harrison County, Indiana.  Buried in Fairview Cemetery.  Charles: Buried in St. Bernard Cemetery.

                             Children:

            226.   i      Mondena PINAIRE, born 04 Sep 1912, died Abt 1917, Floyd County, Indiana.

179.  Amos W. BLUNK, born 12 Feb 1894, Harrison County, Indiana.  He married (1) Alma E. APPLEGATE.  He married (2) Elizabeth BURNS, 1935.  He married (3) Bessie Lee BOSTON, 1935.  Amos died 27 Jun 1963, Marion, Grant County, Indiana, buried: Harrison County, Indiana.  1990, 1920 census-Jackson Twp., Harrison County, Indiana; listed with step-father John A. Krause, Jr. Buried in Hursttown Cemetery.

                             Children:

            227.   i      Donia Lee BLUNK, born 23 Jan 1936.

180.  Mattie Marie BLUNK, born 15 Dec 1895, Indiana.  She married (1) John W. AYERS, 01 Apr 1916, in Harrison County, Indiana.  She married (2) Cleveland BROCK, 03 Jul 1936, born 05 Nov 1894, died 27 Dec 1967, Harlan County, Kentucky.  She married (3) Joesph W. HOMEISTER, 03 Oct 1951.  She married (4) Joseph H. ANG, 29 Mar 1952, born 11 Apr 1894, Indiana, died 30 Jan 1979, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  Mattie died 13 Apr 1968, Floyd County, Indiana.

                             Children:

            228.   i      Charles W. AYERS, born 29 Dec 1916, Harrison County, Indiana, died 16 Oct 1988, Floyd County, Indiana.

            229.   ii    Bertha G. AYERS, born 13 Dec 1918, Floyd County, Indiana.

            230.   iii   Edna Louise AYERS, born 11 Jul 1921.

            231.   iv    Alma AYERS, born 06 Oct 1923.

Sixth Generation

189.  Hattie Mabel BLUNK, born 09 Oct 1923, Daviess County, Kentucky.  She married _____ BROWN.

                             Children:

            232.   i      Victoria J. BROWN, born 19 Aug 1945, Daviess County, Kentucky.

            233.   ii    Judith L. BROWN, born 22 Apr 1947, Daviess County, Kentucky.

191.  Bessie M. BLUNK, born 21 Apr 1932, Daviess County, Kentucky.  She married _____ PHEGLEY.

                             Children:

            234.   i      Rebecca A. PHEGLEY, born 14 Jul 1950, Daviess County, Kentucky.

194.  William Thomas DANIELS, born 28 Oct 1907, Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana.  He married Dorothea Mae ROBERTS, 01 Jan 1934, in Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana.

                             Children:

        +  235.   i      Mary Jane DANIELS born 25 Feb 1935.

            236.   ii    Robert Lee DANIELS, born 07 Dec 1936, Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana.

            237.   iii   Elizabeth Ann DANIELS, born 10 Dec 1939, Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana.

203.  Ira Randle BLUNK, born 30 Jul 1921, Butler County, Kentucky.  He married _____ LALLY.  Ira and Miss Lally were not married. He did marry another later and had children.

                             Children:

            238.   i      Randy BLUNK, born Apr 1942, New York.  Learned in 1990 that his parents were not married.

205.  Charles Rayburn BLUNK, born 20 Jan 1927, Mitchell, Lawrence County, Indiana.  He married Mary Treva HALL, 11 Dec 1948, in Vincennes, Knox County, Indiana, born 09 Nov 1930, Bedford, Lawrence County, Indiana.

                             Children:

            239.   i      Charles Rayburn BLUNK, II, born 26 Jul 1949, Bedford, Lawrence County, Indiana.

            240.   ii    Cheri Loray BLUNK, born 25 Oct 1952, Bedford, Lawrence County, Indiana.

214.  Josie E. BLUNK, born 07 Jul 1925, Butler County, Kentucky.  She married _____ PHELPS.

                             Children:

            241.   i      Eula R. PHELPS, born 05 Jul 1943, Butler County, Kentucky.

215.  Earline BLUNK, born Abt    1926, Butler County, Kentucky.  She married Harry F. MORAN.  Earline died 04 Jun 1993, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky, buried: 07 Jun 1993, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  Buried in Evergreen Cemetery.

                             Children:

            242.   i      Johnny MORAN.

            243.   ii    Robert R. MORAN, born 17 Jan 1949, Jefferson County, Kentucky.

            244.   iii   Rebecca MORAN.  She married _____ HUGHES.

216.  Noah E. BLUNK, born 27 Jun 1928, Butler County, Kentucky.  He married Hazel MILLER, born 23 Jan 1933, Edmonson County, Kentucky, died 09 Jul 1994, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky, buried: 11 Jul 1994, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  Hazel: Buried in Pennsylvania Run Cemetery. SSN 403-44-5923.

                             Children:

            245.   i      Charles W. BLUNK, born 01 Jan 1952, Jefferson County, Kentucky.  He married Mary C. _____.

            246.   ii    James R. BLUNK, born 28 Dec 1955, Jefferson County, Kentucky.

            247.   iii   Tina M. BLUNK, born 06 Sep 1974, Jefferson County, Kentucky.

220.  Reona BLUNK, born 11 Mar 1944, Butler County, Kentucky.  She married Jack WHITE.

                             Children:

            248.   i      Gregory C. WHITE, born 05 Dec 1965, Warren County, Kentucky.

            249.   ii    Robin A. WHITE, born 22 Jan 1969, Warren County, Kentucky.

            250.   iii   Amy M. WHITE, born 27 Jun 1972, Warren County, Kentucky.

            251.   iv    Jackie E. WHITE, born 03 Oct 1973, Warren County, Kentucky.

            252.   v     Christopher D. WHITE, born 16 Sep 1982, Warren County, Kentucky.

            253.   vi    Tracy L. WHITE, born 04 Oct 1963, Warren County, Kentucky.

Seventh Generation

235.  Mary Jane DANIELS, born 25 Feb 1935, Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana.  She married Truman James HARRIER, Jr., 18 May 1958, in Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana, born 12 May 1935, Pittsburg, Alleghany Co., Pennsylvania, (son of Truman James HARRIER and Anita Irene SHIFLETT).

                             Children:

        +  254.   i      David James HARRIER born 25 Feb 1959.

            255.   ii    Anna Marie HARRIER, born 16 Jul 1962, Clarksville, Montgomery Co., Tennessee.

            256.   iii   Daniel William HARRIER, born 16 Jun 1965, Clarksville, Montgomery Co., Tennessee.

            257.   iv    Mary Elizabeth HARRIER, born 17 Apr 1974, Clarksville, Montgomery Co., Tennessee.

Eighth Generation

254.  David James HARRIER, born 25 Feb 1959, Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana.  He married Marian Denise PRATT, 18 Mar 1983, in Clarksville, Montgomery Co., Tennessee.

                             Children:

            258.   i      Ian David HARRIER, born 12 Feb 1992, Chesterfield, St. Louis Co., Missouri.

            259.   ii    Stuart Isaac HARRIER, born 26 Apr 1995, Chesterfield, St. Louis Co., Missouri.

Is it Father's Day Already?

My father is no longer in my life to wish a Happy Father's day.  He died at the age of 90 after living a very fulfilling life. I thought I knew him well, but learned his friends knew another side of him and when they shared with me their experiences, I learned some completely new facets of his life. I'm still learning from my Dad, today, especially this week when I have been writing about him.

I have some other wonderful fathers whom I would like to honor:

Dear Son-in-Law:

I am so happy you are in my daughter's life and are the father of those wonderful kids. You work so hard to provide a good secure life, give them guidance and love and most of all, you do things together that are fun! I know you give your kids enough of yourself that they have a good self esteem. That's so important that they all know how much their Dad loves them and shows it!

Dear #1 Grandson
You have had your share of challenges and still managed to get through them and continue to achieve, but always you have been a good father to the boys. You have taught them good values, given them a strong foundation and openly shared your faith and love. I can hardly wait for them to grow up and see the wonderful young men they will be. I am so proud to see the Dad you have become!

Dear #2 Grandson
You are quite an extraordinary father balancing your very tough work life with your family life and managing to be 100 percent there for both as well as taking care of your other grandmother. It has been amazing to see how you have grown with your delightful little ones and all the effort you make to keep them all happy and well cared for. I just love that they have you in their lives to call "Daddy"!

Dear #1 Brother,

James D Deane

It's surprising how quickly the years have passed by, and here we are, both of us, great grandparents. You, the Great Grand Dad and patriarch of your side of the family. It's hard for me to keep track of all your progeny! I know you have been so instrumental in their upbringing, and well being. I admire how you spread the love throughout 3 generations and still manage to live a good life, especially with all the medical details you have to attend to.


Dear #2 Brother,
It seems so incredible to me that not only are you a father, but also a Grandfather. It seems like it was just yesterday you were my "baby" brother. Does your grandson call you Grandpa? I can't fathom it! Not only do I know how you put your heart into being a Dad, I know your love and talent passes down to your grandson, too.

Dear #2 Nephew,
You grew up so fast and so far away, I hardly know you. Suddenly you were back home and a young man with a son of your own. I was flabbergasted how quickly you grew into fatherhood. And here you are with an almost grown son, who I see is the image of his Dad. I know you work hard, but I suspect you have also taught him how to enjoy playing hard too!

Dear Brother-in-Law, "Ampa",
I can't imagine how hard it might have been for you to step into the role of Grandfather to such a large brood of grandchildren. You have admirably taken on the role like a duck to water. It is obvious all the kids love you dearly. You are such a good influence and stabilizing force in their life, and a man they all can look up to.  I'm so glad you are there for my nieces and nephews.

To the memory of my dear Nephew,
I still love you, will still miss you forever. Your beautiful daughter looks so much like you, it is almost like you are here with her. I delight in seeing the lovely young lady she is growing into. She hasn't forgotten you and everyone in the family watches over her and keeps your memory alive for her. We didn't see what kind of Daddy you would be, but I know for sure, you would have been the best, as you were such a true, open feelings, young man.

Dear Chi Man
I am delighted that you came into T's life and give her the love and support she deserves. I am so grateful that you are a good Dad to the two who needed you so much. What a incredibly strong influence you have had on their lives. And I'm so happy that you've got the youngest to raise up as the special little one she is.

Dear One,
I admire the kind of father I have seen in you and the ongoing relationship you now have with your grown up son. I'm so glad to see you have given him the freedom to spread his wings, supported all his creativity and been both mother and father all those years. You remind me a lot of my own father.

To the missing father,
Oh, how I wish you could see the incredible shining soul your son has become. I would like to think you would be so proud of him and the multi-faceted young man he is. I am glad that he had his Papa in his life for his early years. You were such a loving, doting father. I wish you healing and peace.


To Moses, William, Rick, Mike, Dacia, Jason (RIP),
I never got to know you as fathers. For the one's whose children are my grand nieces and nephews, I hope you all know what an influence you have had on your children. They are all such beautiful souls. You can be so proud of them. They all love you and that speaks a lot.


To all,
I have often thought that wishing someone "Happy father's day" was so inadequate to the message meant to be said behind it. The unspoken is so hard to express in a culture where acknowledging and accepting deep feelings and respect is somewhat taboo. We don't know how to say, "I honor you, my father, this day." I wonder if it will ever catch on.

9 Epiphanies You May Never Have Thought About.

#1. You are not your mind.

The first time I heard somebody say that, I didn’t like the sound of it one bit. What else could I be? I had taken for granted that the mental chatter in my head was the central “me” that all the experiences in my life were happening to.

I see quite clearly now that life is nothing but passing experiences, and my thoughts are just one more category of things I experience. Thoughts are no more fundamental than smells, sights and sounds. Like any experience, they arise in my awareness, they have a certain texture, and then they give way to something else.

If you can observe your thoughts just like you can observe other objects, who’s doing the observing? Don’t answer too quickly. This question, and its unspeakable answer, are at the center of all the great religions and spiritual traditions.

#2. Life unfolds only in moments.

Of course! I once called this the most important thing I ever learned. Nobody has ever experienced anything that wasn’t part of a single moment unfolding. That means life’s only challenge is dealing with the single moment you are having right now. Before I recognized this, I was constantly trying to solve my entire life — battling problems that weren’t actually happening. Anyone can summon the resolve to deal with a single, present moment, as long as they are truly aware that it’s their only point of contact with life, and therefore there is nothing else one can do that can possibly be useful. Nobody can deal with the past or future, because, both only exist as thoughts, in the present. But we can kill ourselves trying.

#3. Quality of life is determined by how you deal with your moments, not which moments happen and which don’t.

I now consider this truth to be Happiness 101, but it’s amazing how tempting it still is to grasp at control of every circumstance to try to make sure I get exactly what I want. To encounter an undesirable situation and work with it willingly is the mark of a wise and happy person. Imagine getting a flat tire, falling ill at a bad time, or knocking something over and breaking it – and suffering nothing from it. There is nothing to fear if you agree with yourself to deal willingly with adversity whenever it does show up. That is how to make life better. The typical, low-leverage method is to hope that you eventually accumulate power over your circumstances so that you can get what you want more often. There’s an excellent line in a Modest Mouse song, celebrating this side-effect of wisdom: As life gets longer, awful feels softer.

#4. Most of life is imaginary.

Human beings have a habit of compulsive thinking that is so pervasive that we lose sight of the fact that we are nearly always thinking. Most of what we interact with is not the world itself, but our beliefs about it, our expectations of it, and our personal interests in it. We have a very difficult time observing something without confusing it with the thoughts we have about it, and so the bulk of what we experience in life is imaginary things. As Mark Twain said: “I’ve been through some terrible things in my life, some of which actually happened.” The best treatment I’ve found? Cultivating mindfulness.

#5. Human beings have evolved to suffer, and we are better at suffering than anything else.

Yikes. It doesn’t sound like a very liberating discovery. I used to believe that if I was suffering it meant that there was something wrong with me — that I was doing life “wrong.” Suffering is completely human and completely normal, and there is a very good reason for its existence. Life’s persistent background hum of “this isn’t quite okay, I need to improve this,” coupled with occasional intense flashes of horror and adrenaline are what kept human beings alive for millions of years. This urge to change or escape the present moment drives nearly all of our behavior. It’s a simple and ruthless survival mechanism which works exceedingly well for keeping us alive, but it has a horrific side effect: human beings suffer greatly by their very nature. This, for me, redefined every one of life’s problems as some tendril of the human condition. As grim as it sounds, this insight is liberating because it means: 1) that suffering does not necessarily mean my life is going wrong, 2) that the ball is always in my court, so the degree to which I suffer is ultimately up to me, and 3) that all problems have the same cause and the same solution.

#6. Emotions exist to make us biased.

This discovery was a complete 180 from my old understanding of emotions. I used to think my emotions were reliable indicators of the state of my life — of whether I’m on the right track or not. Your passing emotional states can’t be trusted for measuring your self-worth or your position in life, but they are great at teaching you what it is you can’t let go of. The trouble is that emotions make us both more biased and more forceful at the same time. Another survival mechanism with nasty side-effects.

#7.  All people operate from the same two motivations: to fulfill their desires and to escape their suffering.

Learning this allowed me to finally make sense of how people can hurt each other so badly. The best explanation I had before this was that some people are just bad. What a cop-out. No matter what kind of behavior other people exhibit, they are acting in the most effective way they are capable of (at that moment) to fulfill a desire or to relieve their suffering. These are motives we can all understand; we only vary in method, and the methods each of us has at our disposal depend on our upbringing and our experiences in life, as well as our state of consciousness. Some methods are skillful and helpful to others, others are unskillful and destructive, and almost all destructive behavior is unconscious. So there is no good and evil, only smart and dumb (or wise and foolish). Understanding this completely shook my long-held notions of morality and justice.

#8. Beliefs are nothing to be proud of.

Believing something is not an accomplishment. I grew up thinking that beliefs are something to be proud of, but they’re really nothing but opinions one refuses to reconsider. Beliefs are easy. The stronger your beliefs are, the less open you are to growth and wisdom, because “strength of belief” is only the intensity with which you resist questioning yourself. As soon as you are proud of a belief, as soon as you think it adds something to who you are, then you’ve made it a part of your ego. Listen to any “die-hard” conservative or liberal talk about their deepest beliefs and you are listening to somebody who will never hear what you say on any matter that matters to them — unless you believe the same. It is gratifying to speak forcefully, it is gratifying to be agreed with, and this high is what the die-hards are chasing. Wherever there is a belief, there is a closed door. Take on the beliefs that stand up to your most honest, humble scrutiny, and never be afraid to lose them.

#9. Objectivity is subjective.

Life is a subjective experience and that cannot be escaped. Every experience I have comes through my own, personal, unsharable viewpoint. There can be no peer reviews of my direct experience, no real corroboration. This has some major implications for how I live my life. The most immediate one is that I realize I must trust my own personal experience, because nobody else has this angle, and I only have this angle. Another is that I feel more wonder for the world around me, knowing that any “objective” understanding I claim to have of the world is built entirely from scratch, by me. What I do build depends on the books I’ve read, the people I’ve met, and the experiences I’ve had. It means I will never see the world quite like anyone else, which means I will never live in quite the same world as anyone else — and therefore I mustn’t let outside observers be the authority on who I am or what life is really like for me. Subjectivity is primary experience — it is real life, and objectivity is something each of us builds on top of it in our minds, privately, in order to explain it all. This truth has world-shattering implications for the roles of religion and science in the lives of those who grasp it.

Death Changes Everything

I look back upon other deaths in my life and see them differently. My father didn't want any fuss to be made, no viewing, no ceremony. He just wanted to be cremated, and be done with it.

Gennie and James Deane age 85 and 90

Both my parents had expressed this as their choice for years. Yet, when Dad died, it was immediately obvious that, though we would respect the wish for cremation, we would still go through the nice dressed up appearance, the new tie to go with Dad's favorite suit, the make up for his face to look healthy and happy.

Though, I thought that smile was probably broader than any my father had ever made, it was still better in appearance than what it might have been. There was no fancy, expensive coffin, but a temporary one. I don't recall what it was called, they had a special name for it. Sturdy, yet disposable, something that would burn with him, for little expense. Perhaps some sort of cardboard?

We went against Dad's wishes for the sake of our Mom's comfort. Her grief was so intense, we did this to help give her some closure, to help her face the fact that his physical presence would not continue to be with her, to help her make that transition into widowhood as best as possible. It gave her the chance to be dressed up for him, for her to say goodbye. After all, he died when she was asleep. When we woke her, she tried to revive him. Perhaps she thought she might have prevented his death if she had not been sleeping. We like to think that going through with a ceremony, a priest, a church as she was brought up with, as was familiar to her, would help to bring some sort of comfort to her.

Letter to a Dead Mother (2)

Dear Mom,

It was nice to smell the aroma of my childhood today as I sipped my cup of coffee. Yes, it's true! I didn't have my tea. I made me a "cuppa" in remembrance of you. Wish you could sit here with me to enjoy it.

I wonder if there is anything to the notion of treating ancestors to earthly gifts. Would it be nice for you if you could get a whiff? A taste? Kats has a shelf where pictures of his parents are displayed. Every morning he puts a cup of coffee and a bowl of rice in front of them, out of respect and remembrance.

I remember when Dad was close to death and he couldn't eat, he said he didn't miss food. But, coffee... oh if he could just have a taste! So, we dipped a cloth in a cup of coffee and touched it to his tongue. Would you have liked that?

No, I think not. In your last days you were a chai drinker. Weren't you? Tomorrow I will make a cup of chai and drink it joyfully in honor of you. Yes, honor you. I didn't do enough of that when you were around, except maybe on Mother's Day, Birthday, Christmas. The rest of the year, you knocked yourself out working for a living and being our mom. How did you do it back in the 1950's when being a working mom was not very acceptable? I certainly didn't appreciate it. I felt resentful that I had to babysit and do things around the house while other kids were out playing. And it didn't help that others made it clear to me how "deprived of a childhood" I was. Especially other adults!

I remember some neighbor saying, "Oh? Your mother works? She should be home taking care of you kids! Tsk, Tsk."  Soon I decided to not mention your being employed. I let my resentment simmer. Today, of course, a woman who is co-owner of a business, present on the job, AND a mother is valued. Today you could have held your head high for your achievements and not be embarrassed. And perhaps I would have been proud of my mom and the responsibilities she entrusted me with.

I remember that last decade of your life, Mom. You fussed and worried and apologized repeatedly. "I should never have left you kids on your own. I should have been there for you. Maybe things would have been better if I never worked."

James and Genevieve Deane, Easter 1950s
8295 Laughlin Dr. Niagara Falls New York 

I don't know how many times we all tried to reassure you that things really were better for us that way. We all became quite self-sufficient and independent. I didn't envy other kids much for having their mothers at home nagging on them all the time, making them mind their manners, making them stay indoors when the whole outdoors was our playground. We had freedom, Mom! Other kids didn't have that. I secretly felt quite smug about that.

I could go across the street to the park and swing on the swings when other kids had to come in and do their homework. I could watch cartoons all Saturday morning if I liked. I learned how to shop for food on my own. All of us kids had freedom to wander and wonder at what other kids were forbidden. We played in the woods nearby. We dug in the dirt without worrying about getting dirty. We had life as a gift to discover without constraint. Some people thought we were a bit wild. And yes, some parents wouldn't let their kids play with us. So what? We didn't like those prissy kids all that much anyways.

Mom, I hope there is a way now, you can see that it all worked out for the best. Can you see we are all getting through life with solid confidence that we can make it, regardless of the challenges? We learned to make mistakes. Unlike other kids, we knew how to fall down and pick ourselves up.  If we scraped our knees, we knew to go home, clean up, put a band aid on, and get back out in the world ourselves. You kissed our boo boos later, if we thought to tell you. Me? I usually didn't. I was too busy complaining about having to do the dishes or whining about having to clean my room. But, only when you really got after me to get those things done.

Of course, there were a few motherly cuddles we missed. But, you were there for us when we grew up and you didn't have to work, couldn't work, anymore. I could call you anytime and tell you all my problems. You didn't try to tell me what to do. You listened. You held your tongue. I know it was hard for you. I know now you could see I was making the same mistakes you had. I wonder if it would have been different if your mother hadn't died when I was a baby. Maybe she would have told you. Then, maybe you could have guided me in the same way. You had no experience raising kids, or relating to your adult kids. Yet, I blamed you for not being a better mom. Yet there I was as a troubled adult, reaching out to you. It's so odd, now that I think about it. Sometimes I thought you were my worst enemy. But, I look back and see you weren't.

I didn't realize it at the time, but your listening to me on the phone was better than gold to me. You know better than anyone the twisted turmoil I inflicted upon myself the secrets of my heart, the troubles of my soul. You put up with a lot of my taking it out on you, my blaming you for my troubles.

I remember you saying, "Yes, yes, it's always the mother's fault her kids are unhappy. Just ask any shrink!" I didn't know how much that hurt you, that we couldn't be close. You bent over backwards to help me, to be there for me. But, you didn't know what I needed. Not really. How could you have known? I certainly didn't. You didn't have a parenting manual. You didn't have a psychology degree to help you with your unstable daughter. How it must have tormented you when I couldn't get effective treatment, when I got so despondent I didn't want to live. I can barely stand it when my own daughter faces her grief. What pains her, pains me. I don't know how you did it, Mom.

I know sometimes you got upset, you worried about me doing the wrong thing, worried I was suffering because of the way I lived my life. Some mothers turn their backs on their adult children when they don't like how they live. Some mothers let go of the apron strings right when the kids leave the nest. They disconnect from their kids, then wonder why they are so distant. They live out their "golden years" disenchanted.

Grown up or not, I was still your child. I remember you saying that more than once. I think the last time you said that to me was when you were eighty-six, and I was sixty-one. "No matter how old you are, you will always be my child".

Whether it is real or not, whether you know what I'm feeling or not, it doesn't matter. I'm so glad I finally found this way to feel connected to you again. It's been a lonely five years without you.

You know what Mom? No matter where you are now, you'll always be my mother.