Cornelius Leendert VanBlankenstein

Cornelius Leendert VanBlankenstein, born July 29, 1940 in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, was called home May 14, 2026 in Gilbert Arizona. There to welcome their Dad were his children: Tahna, Todd and Brett. Also preceded in death were his parents: Jeanne Marie Schouten and Marinus VanBlankenstein. He is survived by his wife, Melissa, children Karena (Steven) Fisher, Stacy (Stephen) Tanner, Jared Paul VanBlankenstein, sister Jeanne Maatje Pendleton, 16 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

Before entering the 7th grade in Holland,”Van’s” family immigrated to the U.S. through Canada, where he began all over his studies as he spoke no English. Hard work and a desire to fit in drove him to excel and eventually graduate from high school while still in Canada. From there he was called on a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints back to his homeland where the language was now easy for him! When he returned after 2 ½ years, his family had moved to Salt Lake City, Utah. He then continued his education at Brigham Young University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in History and English. Marriage, family, career and continuous education followed, earning him a Masters in Educational Administration while pursuing a doctorate at the University of Southern California.

A dedicated lifelong educator and administrator, he spent many years positively impacting countless students and colleagues through his patience, wisdom and commitment to learning. Van enjoyed reading, war history, dirt bike riding, driving “Lil Pepe”, his boat, Lake Powell with family on a houseboat and missionary service. He served faithfully in stake callings, ward callings and wherever needed.

He will be lovingly missed by his wife, Melissa, of 61 years. Together they served 4 missions for their church and during these last 5 months, while constantly together and he preparing to return home, considers this truly another mission.

A Celebration of Life will be held on:

Date: May 30th,2026

Viewing: 9:00-9:45am

Funeral Service: 10:00am

Location: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints

Address: 41246 N Barnes Pkwy, San Tan Valley, AZ 85142

ZOOM:: Soon to be posted

Van touched the lives of many through his kindness, generosity, integrity and devotion to his family. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him. May his memory bring comfort and peace to those whose lives he touched.