Roundup Record Tribune & Winnett Times -

Lance William Blessing, "Butch", age 71, of Crestview, Florida, passed away at North Okaloosa Medical Center, on Friday, August 14, 2020 with family by his side. He fought a long and courageous battle of various medical conditions for several years and is now at peace in God's arms. Lance was born in Norristown, Pennsylvania on September 19, 1948, a son of James and Bernice Blessing. He married Cynthia Blessing, his high school sweetheart, on November 10, 1968 in Livingston, Michigan, after he jumped on the back of her horse.Lance was a strong, but compassionate man who will forever be loved and greatly missed. He spent most of his years exercising his remarkable work ethic and making the most of his days off. Lance joined the United States Navy at a young age and fought in the Vietnam War where he received the Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon. Lance dedicated 42 years of service to keeping the lights on with the Montana Power Company and Northwestern Energy. He retired in 2008. Lance lived all over the United States starting in Fort Lauderdale, going to Montana, and ending up back in Florida. Lance spent most of his weekends on the boat fishing with his close friends and children or reloading ammunition for his next hunting adventure. He was a true outdoorsman and a faithful patriot who loved his country. His sarcastic humor was infectious and always turned a gray day into a sunny one. Lance thoroughly enjoyed riding his Harley, playing pool, and watching WWE. A day didn't go by where he didn't watch the news or tell his loved ones he loved them.In addition to his wife Cynthia of 52 years, Lance is survived by his children, Barbara Blessing, James Blessing (Taylor Fisher), and Destiny Blessing (Ronald Rycek III), along with his first and only grandson Jameson Birdwell. Survivors also include Lance's two sisters, Darcy Blessing and Lorie Roberts-Vega and his aunt, Barbara Reid, along with many nieces and nephews. Lance adored his fur babies like they were a part of the family and he leaves behind his two boys, Cayman and Shogun.In addition to his parents, Lance was preceded in death by his two brothers Kirk and Cole Blessing and his sister Karen, along with his princess pup, Sasha.Lance was a family oriented man and wished only for a private memorial service and viewing for immediate family, which was held on August 17, 2020. He was blessed and received his last rights with his family by his side. Lance wishes were to be cremated and to remain within his family's possession, while he waits for his wife to join him, only then will his ashes be spread with hers so they can be together forever and always. Arrangements are under the direction of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home. To share memories, express condolences and sign the guestbook, please visit, http://www.daviswatkins.com.