Elmer Lee Blanken

Elmer Lee Blanken, 82, of Morristown, passed away November 30, 2023, at his home peacefully surrounded by family. He was a longtime employee of American Enka/BASF and retired after over 36 years of service.  Elmer was a founding member of the Hamblen County Car Club and was a self-employed mechanic throughout his life.  He was an active drag strip and dirt track and NASCAR driver.  In 1980, Elmer was named NASCAR Rookie of the year in International Sedan Series.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie and Myrtle Blanken; four brothers and one sister.

He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Kathleen Theresa Blanken; children, Jeff (Stacey) Blanken,  Gary Blanken, Tony (Shelly) Blackburn; stepchildren,  Mark (Hillary) Sawyer, Tom (Tammy) Sawyer, Dale (Pam) Sawyer; Jimmy England and Kim Harris; grandchildren, Hannah (Scooter) Brock, Hunter (Ellie Kate) Blanken, and Emma Blanken; several step grandchildren; sister, Ruth Douthat; brother, Dean (Betty) Blanken; as well as several other nieces, nephews, special friend, neighbor, and racing buddy, Bobby Wells.Special thanks to Gentiva Hospice for all their care and support. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Hamblen County Car Club; c/o Evie Valentine; 3877 Dan Drive. Morristown, TN. 37814.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 – 7:00 pm Tuesday, December 5, 2023, in the East Chapel of Allen Funeral Home prior to the funeral service at 7:00 pm.  Reverends O’Dell Davidson and Greg Douthat will officiate the services.   Graveside service and interment  will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 6, 2023, in Hamblen Memory Gardens.

Allen funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

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