NICOLE BLANKENSHIP

Nicole Ellen Blankenship or, “Nikki”, passed away peacefully after a short battle with cancer on June 5, 2022 in her home in Clements, CA. She was surrounded by her husband, mother, and two daughters. She was in the place she always loved with the people she loved the most.

Nicole was born on March 21, 1967, in Lodi, CA and spent her childhood years living in Clements. She attended elementary school at St. Anne’s Catholic School and her high school years were spent at Linden High School. During high school, she was an avid basketball player and a dedicated member of the FFA in which she showed cattle. She won numerous awards and recognitions during this time. After graduating Linden High School in 1985, Nicole attended Modesto Junior College. From there, she transferred to California State University Stanislaus where she obtained her Bachelor’s degree and teaching credential.

Nicole was an elementary school teacher for over 29 years, until the day of her passing. She had been working at Needham Elementary in Lodi, CA at the time and was much loved by her students and coworkers. One of the greatest joys in her life was teaching and helping her students thrive and become successful. She was also an active member of her church at St. Joachim’s and community where she touched so many lives in a positive way throughout her 55 years of life. Her endless kindness and compassion will be missed by many.

Though Nicole’s professional career was a large and treasured part of her life, her greatest joy of all was her family. Nicole spent most of her time with her family and friends hosting parties, cooking family dinners, spoiling/playing endlessly with her grandchildren, and wine tasting with her daughters. She was the most dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother. There was nothing she wouldn’t do for her family. Nicole is survived by her loving husband, Bud;mother, Karen Berg; daughters, Kaylee Watt and Jessica Blankenship; son-in-law, Steven Watt; and granddaughters Hazel and Quincy Watt.

In memory of Nicole and in lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to the American Cancer Society and Hospice of San Joaquin. All are welcome to attend services which will be held on June 20, 2022 at St. Joachim Catholic Church located at 13392 E. Lockeford Ranch Dr. ? Lockeford, CA 95237. The Rosary will be at 9:30 am and the Mass will be at 10:00 am with a celebration of life to follow.

Please sign the guest book at lodinews.com/ guestbook.