It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Brother Keith Blanton, a dedicated and loyal member of our union family, on August 6, 2025.
Brother Blanton’s remarkable career at American Airlines in Tulsa, Oklahoma spanned over three decades, beginning in 1988. Throughout his tenure, he demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication as an Aviation Maintenance Technician, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues. His expertise and leadership abilities led to his promotion to Tech Crew Chief, a role in which he excelled. Ultimately, Brother Blanton retired in 2020 from the position of Inspector, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and commitment to our craft.
Born on November 7, 1951, Brother Blanton’s life was marked by a strong work ethic, a passion for his
profession, and a deep devotion to his union brothers and sisters. His passing leaves a void in our
community, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
We take this moment to honor Brother Blanton’s memory and celebrate his many contributions to the aviation industry. We offer our sincerest condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.
As we remember Brother Blanton’s life and legacy, we are reminded of the importance of solidarity,
camaraderie, and the unwavering commitment to our shared values as union members. His dedication to our craft and our community will never be forgotten, and his spirit will continue to inspire us as we move forward together.
Rest in peace, Brother Blanton. Your memory will live on in our hearts and minds forever.
Funeral Services
Date: August 15th, 2025
Time: 3:00pm
Location:
Mowery Funeral Service Chapel
9110 North Garnett Road
Owasso, OK 74055
Keith Blanton Obituary
Keith was a great friend whose loyalty knew no bounds. He was a constant for his bride of 48 years. Keith and Maureen Saunders married in July of 1977 in Cheyenne, Wyoming after a great pursuit.
The stories are many, deep and true. The mischief was real. Those who had the great fortune of knowing Keith well will miss his jolly laugh and smile that assured you that you never wanted to part company.
Keith could be serious and was a quiet, hard worker. He did so much for so many, most of whom never knew how things got done.
A founding resident of Skyhaven Airpark, Keith was a pilot and aircraft enthusiast. He retired from American Airlines after 32 years as an Aircraft Inspector. His Bellanca Super Viking and his callsign 6709V will be sorely missed. Keith enjoyed his association with the Aircraft Owner Pilot Association (AOPA). As well, he held an Inspection Authorization (IA) Certification, granted to licensed aircraft mechanics by the FAA.
Born on a cold day in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, Keith was the oldest of ten siblings. He graduated from Lyman High School in Lyman, Nebraska. Keith then trained as an A&P Mechanic at Cheyenne Aerotech in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Before moving briefly to Owasso, Oklahoma in 1988, Keith lived in Fort Laramie, Wyoming and Lyman, Nebraska. In Keith’s desire to pursue his love for flying, he and Maureen bought a lot and built their final residence at Skyhaven Airpark in Collinsville, Oklahoma on the runway.
Keith is so very loved by his wife, Maureen; and his Springer Spaniel, Bently; siblings, Lyle Blanton and his wife Liz of Chyenne, WY, Carla Blanton Schmid and her husband Michael of Chyenne, WY, Juanita Blanton Montz and her husband Mike of Alvin, TX, Bryce Blanton of Chyenne, WY, Craig Blanton and his wife Holli of Brownwood, TX, Scott Blanton of Gering, NE, Clyde Blanton and his wife Lisa of Scottsbluff, NE, and Leola Blanton Whisman of Palco, KS; nine nieces and eight nephews. While Keith and Maureen were not blessed with children, they considered Jeanna and Gina Sellmeyer their own. Along with their son, Will, who was their little buddy and who clearly called Keith, Granddad.
Keith was preceded in death by his parents, Arvin Wesley and Genevieve Chalupa Blanton, his brother, Bart Blanton and brother-in-law, Darren Whisman.
Services will be on August 15th at 3:00 p.m. at the Mowery Funeral Home Chapel in Owasso.
Beyond flowers, you may consider planting a tree or donating to Ward-Wiseman Animal Haven in Collinsville, Oklahoma or a Springer Spaniel Rescue. Both Keith and Maureen being avid animal lovers.
It seems unreal that we will see you no more. This is 6709Victor making final takeoff from Skyhaven Airpark runway with blue skies and strong tailwinds.