We gather to celebrate the life and memory of Christa H. "Christel" Blenkle, a woman whose laughter and love echoed louder than her famous cowbell at Yorktown High School football games. Christel, a spirited soul who was born in Queens, NY on August 15, 1939, took her final bow surrounded by her loved ones in Poughkeepsie, NY on January 31, 2026. She was a beacon of faith, leaving a legacy of warmth and welcome that will resonate for generations.
Christel's early years were spent in Queens, where she grew up with her beloved German immigrant parents, August and Paula Hartmann, and siblings Elizabeth "Peppy" Riley, Paul Hartmann, Adel Hartmann, and Agnes Hopeck. She graduated from All Saints High School, where she was undoubtedly voted loudest in the class - in the best possible way. In 1960, Christel married the love of her life, the late Gerard L. Blenkle, and together they embarked on life's greatest adventure: raising a family.
A homemaker in the truest sense, Christel was the CEO of the Blenkle household, skillfully managing the chaos and comedy of raising three sons who survive her: Gerard M. (Christina), Rev. Joseph A., and Robert P. (Lisa) Blenkle. She took on the hardest job of all with grace and a sense of humor that could defuse any teenage drama. Her sons, now grown men, carry with them the strength, faith and laughter she instilled in them. They also blessed her family when they married her "daughters,” Lisa and Christina, and as well as giving her four loving grandchildren - Robert, Thomas, James, and Elizabeth.
Christel's faith was as central to her life as her family. She was a pillar of St. Patrick's Church in Yorktown Heights, where she was a member of the Altar Rosary Society, a Eucharistic Minister, and a lifeline to the homebound. Her visits were not just about spiritual nourishment; she brought a dose of humor and light to those she served. As a Regional Coordinator for Marriage Encounter, she opened her home and heart to married couples, guiding them through marred life. She also helped prepare engaged couples through the Pre-Cana program, as well as serving as an auxiliary member supporting many teenagers on their spiritual journeys during DDA weekends.
But Christel's community spirit didn't stop at the church doors. For 25 years, she was Yorktown's very own "Welcome Wagon Lady," the community ambassador who greeted new residents with a smile and insider tips. Her knowledge of the town was only surpassed by her enthusiasm for connecting with others.
At the football field, Christel was in her element. As a member of the Yorktown Touchdown Club, she rang her cowbell with gusto, cheering on her sons and their teammates. Her energy was infectious, her spirit unmissable, and her voice, well, let's just say, no one needed a PA system when Christel was around.
Together with her husband, Christel hosted some legendary parties at home. No one left hungry, and all who were privileged enough to be part of any event carried home with them the warmth and spirit that she brought to each gathering. Her sons and their friends were especially thankful for "whatever happens at the Blenkle's stays at the Blenkle's".
As we bid farewell to Christel, let's not say goodbye but rather, "Auf Wiedersehen." You were one of a kind, and we are all blessed for having known your love, guidance and laughter. We will miss you.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton's Angel Fund, which benefits children in the Faith Formation Program.
