Wesley Drew Blank, a resident of Dripping Springs for the last 20 years, passed away on April 17. He and his wife Paula moved to the Hill Country from Pasadena, Texas to be near their two daughters and four grandchildren in 1995.
Wesley was born in Lufkin, Texas on December 2, 1936. He was the son of Harold Combs Blank and Gladys Scarbrough Blank.
Wesley graduated from Pasadena High School in 1956. Playing the cornet in the PHS Eagle Band was one of his fondest memories. As a young man he was also a member of Pasadena Chapter Order of DeMolay. Wesley received his degree in mechanical engineering from Rice Institute, now Rice University, in 1959. During his 32 years as an engineer at Ethyl Corporation on the ship channel in Pasadena, Wesley acquired five patents of which he was very proud.
His 55 year marriage to Paula Jane Rogers was an example of true commitment. The two met in the sixth grade at Kruse Elementary School. They later became high school sweethearts and were married in 1959. Wesley and Paula remained constant companions as each battled cancer. Although Wesley’s recovery was fairly quick and complete, Paula’s began over 20 years ago and continues. Throughout this time, he has accompanied her to every appointment.
Along with Paula, Wesley is survived by daughters Jennifer Ragsdale and husband Trey of Buda and their two children Kerbye and Trevor, and by Dr. Amber Crossland and her husband Dr. Lamar Crossland of Driftwood and their two children Morgan and Cody. Wesley was a member of Dripping Springs United Methodist Church and felt particular joy by participating in the Seekers class. He also enjoyed playing cards with friends in Wimberley and running with his devoted dog, Rowdy. As anyone who knew him would attest, Wesley was a man of strict discipline, deep integrity, high intelligence and quick wit.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society (https://donate.cancer.org) or to the building fund at Dripping Springs United Methodist Church (http://www.dsumc.org). A celebration of Wesley’s life will be held at a later date.
Condolences may be sent to: www.harrellfuneralhomes.com.
