Vanessa "Van" Blaine

Vanessa “Van” Evelyn Marian Blaine, 96, went to be with our Lord and Savior on Thursday, March 21, 2024. She was born in Trenton, North Dakota on February 8, 1928, to John Thomas and Evalyn Marian Wilkinson. She was the youngest daughter of seven children, followed by her only surviving sibling, Bill. Van graduated high school from a one-room schoolhouse, in Trenton, in 1946. She often talked about her classmates taking turns feeding coal to heat the school. 

She met and married Charlie Blaine, in China Lake, California, in 1948. They soon moved to Moscow, Idaho where Charlie (at her insistence/love of education) attended the University of Idaho, Moscow. Here, the couple welcomed Charlotte in 1950, and Rebecca in 1951. After graduating with his undergrad, the family moved to Schenectady, New York, where Charlie was employed by General Electric. They welcomed daughter, Claudia, soon after in 1953. In pursuit for further education, Van and Charlie moved their family back to Moscow, where Charlie earned his master’s degree in electrical engineering. After the move back to Moscow, the family welcomed another baby, Tom, in 1955.

Finally, in June of 1956, Van and Charlie found the place they’d call home for the next 67 years. Charlie had applied to many places after graduating and Van decided, due to the mild weather, Albuquerque, New Mexico was it! This was the place they raised their children and spoiled their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

Van loved music, word-study, travel, and learning. More than once, Van attended college classes to satisfy her love of learning. She loved to sing and worship through music.

Van is survived by her loving husband of 75 years, Charlie Blaine, her children Charlotte Lovett and husband Alan of Dripping Springs, TX, Rebecca Blaine and husband Paul van Gulick of Albuquerque, NM, Claudia Blaine and Jimmy Hollen of Edgewood, NM, Tom Blaine and wife Sandy of Jarales, NM, and her younger brother Bill Wilkinson of Lansing, MI. She is also survived by seven grandchildren and their spouses, and nine great-grandchildren.

Though she is having a grand reunion with her family in Heaven, she will be greatly missed by all. Van will be remembered for her optimism and joyful spirit.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to First United Methodist Church's Music Program.