Bruce Dudley Blankley

It is with profound sadness, and immense gratitude for a life so well lived, that we announce the passing of Bruce Dudley Blankley at the age of 78.

Known affectionately as Pops, Brucie, Boo and Booman, Bruce was born and raised in Vernon, British Columbia. He loved his hometown deeply and spent his life helping make it a better place.

Bruce was part of the Blankley family business in Vernon, owning Watkin Motors alongside his father, Jack, and his brother, Budd. Bruce approached business and life with optimism, honesty, fairness, creativity and an ability to think outside the box. 

His commitment to Vernon extended far beyond the family business. Bruce was a dedicated supporter of his community and was actively involved with organizations including Kalamalka Rotary, United Way and the North Okanagan Community Foundation. He gave generously, led quietly and never sought recognition for his contributions. 

Above everything else, Bruce loved his family. Bruce will be deeply missed by his wife, Ruth Blankley; his son, Scott (Meg) Blankley; his daughter, Krista Blankley (Jeff); his grandchildren, Alex, Ella and Charlie Blankley, and Ainsley Nichols; his sister-in-law, Gail Blankley; his nephew, Ross (Barb) Blankley; and his niece, Jennifer Blankley. He was predeceased by his parents, Jack and Fern Blankley, and his brother, Donald “Budd” Blankley.

Bruce was a devoted Seattle Seahawks fan, which demonstrated both loyalty and an impressive tolerance for emotional uncertainty. He also loved salmon fishing off the west coast of Vancouver Island, golfing, hunting, travelling and cooking his famous deep-fried oysters every Boxing Day. Whether everyone actually needed deep-fried oysters after Christmas dinner was never up for discussion. They were tradition.

We will miss his laughter, his generous heart, his steady leadership, and of course, his plans. Bruce may no longer be here to organize the next step, but we are fairly certain he left us detailed instructions somewhere. 

A celebration of Bruce’s life will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bruce’s memory to the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation or the North Okanagan Community Foundation.

Arrangements entrusted to

Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services 250-558-0866

Condolences may be expressed to the family by phone or email through Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services: