Duane Nathaniel Blakeman

On the afternoon of Wednesday, October 11, 2023, Duane peacefully passed away surrounded by his loving family.

Duane Nathaniel Blakeman was born on September 14, 1935, In Merced CA, to Jerry and Annie Blakeman.

Duane was the oldest of four brothers. He attended the former El Capitan High School where he first laid eyes on his "Bootsie" and instantly knew she would become his bride.

On August 11, 1956, Duane and Bootsie married, and together they had three children. Steve, Scott, and Christy.

Duane was a hardworking man with many talents. He was dedicated to his work, community, friends, and most of all, his family.

Duane, his sons, dad, and brother were proud owners of Blakeman Masonry. Evidence of their excellent work is still seen around town.

He proudly built a Houseboat which provided endless hours of summertime fun and adventures on lake McClure with Family and Friends.

He was involved in the community as a member of the Kiwanis Club, and of the Elks Lodge holding the honor of being "Elk" of the Year, and Trustee. He was also a member of Club Mercedes where he was able to enjoy his passion for cooking and learn the secrets to Mexican Cuisine.

Hosting Family meals like Thanksgiving and Christmas gave him the opportunity to share his perfected recipes and special traditions like making tamales.

Duane was always involved and supportive of his children. The family attended countless races through the years growing from Motorcycles to Race Cars cheering on Scott and Steve. Family trips to Montana and annual visits to the beach where he could watch his "Bootsie" and daughter Christy walk the shoreline collecting shells and sea glass.

On Sunday afternoon you could be sure to find him in his favorite chair cheering on to victory his favorite San Francisco Teams the Forty Niners or the Giants.

Duane was always up and ready for a celebration if it meant spending time with his friends and family.

Duane is preceded in death by his loving wife Laurel "Bootsie" Blakeman, his brother Mike Blakeman, and his parents, Jerry and Annie Blakeman.

He is survived by his sons, Steve Blakeman, Scott Blakeman (Heidi), his daughter Christy Blakeman (Xavier), brothers Jerry Blakeman, Bill Blakeman (Peggy), his granddaughters Lacey Romine (Padraic), Lindsey Carrier (James) grandson Brandon Blakeman (Alma) and seven great grandchildren.

A celebration of Duane's life will be held on Saturday October 28, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at Yosemite Church with a luncheon immediately following.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Duane Nathaniel Blakeman, please visit our floral store.