Benjamin "Bud" Blank

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Benjamin “Bud” Blank, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, father-in-law, brother, brother-in-law, and friend. He passed away on March 2nd, 2024 at the age of 92, surrounded by his family. 

Bud was a perfectly fitting nickname for the Blank family patriarch. Bud was a steadfast “buddy” to those he loved: a true partner, friend and companion. Bud shared an incredible 65 years of marriage with his beloved wife Libby, with whom he had three sons, Eric, Rob, and Jeff. 

Bud and Libby married in 1958, after graduating from Temple University — Libby with her Bachelor's degree in Science and Bud with his Doctorate in Organic Chemistry. They raised their boys in Trevose, Pennsylvania, and instilled in them a devotion to and love for learning, exploration, family … and baseball. 

Bud had a quiet but firm analytical sensibility that was the ideal complement to Libby’s fierce determination. Together, they were a perfect pair: Libby a woman who followed her heart, and Bud, a man of science and logic who always encouraged Libby, his boys, and his grandkids to follow their hearts- but practically. 

Bud passed down his legacy of commitment, selflessness, and curiosity to his children and grandchildren. His tireless support and dedication inspired his sons to pursue their lifelong academic, professional, and athletic achievements. He was their coach and proudest fan. This legacy continues to be passed down through the Blank family’s six grandchildren, who lovingly knew him as Pop -Pop. 

After graduating from Temple, Bud spent the first part of his career as a medicinal chemist at Smith Kline before leaving the labs to become an accomplished technology transfer executive within both the pharmaceutical and food industries for Smith Kline, Eastman Pharmaceuticals/Sterling Drug, Campbell Soup Company, SRI International and finally MDS Pan Labs. 

He was highly successful in leveraging his deep technical background and broad understanding of the pharmaceutical and dietary supplement discovery and development process to translate highly technical issues into readily understandable and actionable terms. 

Bud and Libby jumped at every opportunity for adventure for themselves and their family. They traveled extensively, visiting 90 countries and all seven continents. They traveled frequently with their children and grandchildren, creating treasured memories for the entire family. Their home was filled with art and memories from their trips abroad and their time with family. 

Bud will be remembered for his devotion to family. You knew you were safe and taken care of with Bud at the helm. He would leave no stone unturned, no box unchecked, and no road unmapped. He was thoughtful, methodical, stubborn, and committed. Bud took care of and thought for everyone around him, often above himself. His commitment to ensuring his loved ones had an easier life than himself will always be recognized and acknowledged. 

But Bud also enjoyed many varied hobbies and passions over the years including stamp collecting, an enthusiasm for driving 2 seat convertibles (that made no sense for a family of 5, but were really fun), watching and listening to musicals, designing and operating model railroads (for which he added a full room onto his house to accommodate), ruminating about Philly sports teams, reading spy novels, and playing word puzzles and card games.

Bud is survived by his sister Marlene, his sons Eric, Rob, and Jeff, his daughters-in-law Jill and Christina, and his six grandchildren, Nikki, Jake, Erin, Anna, Allie, and Sara. Bud was preceded in death by his beloved daughter-in-law, Nancy, his brother Harvey, and the love of his life, Libby. 

Bud was happiest surrounded by his family, hearing stories and updates about their lives, travels, studies, and adventures. 

Bud was the unwavering anchor of the Blank family. He was a man of science, determination, and resiliency. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew him. May his memory be a blessing. Rest in peace Bud and Libby.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Benjamin Blank to St. Jude’s Research Hospital.