1933-2007
Charles Emery Blaylock, 74, of Burns, died March 11 at St. Charles Medical Center in Bend. A celebration of life is planned for noon today at the Terrebonne Cemetery.
Mr. Blaylock, known as Chuck, was born Feb. 3, 1933, to Martha Alice (Hill) and Cecil Emery Blaylock in Humboldt, Kan.
In 1955 Chuck married Judith Nancy Bacon. Chuck lived his life on his own terms. He was a professional rodeo clown, bullfighter and entertainer for 27 years, retiring in 1976. He performed in Union County rodeos in 1967 and 1968. Chuck was also a singer, songwriter and comedian.
Chuck remarried in 1966 to Patty Hammock. They had two children. Patty joined him in his act, and she was the first woman in the nation to be “in the barrel.”
Survivors include his wife, Patty; children and their spouses, Lori Lee Nancy and Greg Brugato of Boise, Cecil “Ted” Theodore and Debbie Blaylock of La Grande, Charles “Rick” Richard and Cheryl Blaylock of Palmer, Alaska, John and Jamie Wesley of Enumclaw, Wash., and Ron Earnest of Bend; a sister, Evelyn Perkins of Albany; 14 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; and his lifelong friend and rodeo partner, Benny Bidwell.
He was preceded in death by his previous wife, Judith; siblings, Lora, Lavone, Richard, Clifford and Eugene; and a son, Rodney.
Memorials may be made to local homeless shelters or a charity of choice in care of Driskill Memorial Chapel, 241 S. Canyon Blvd., John Day 97845.
The Observer publishes free obituaries as a community service. Obituaries are edited to fit news guidelines. Photos are encouraged. Paid space is available for families who would like to include more information. Daniels Chapel of the Valley also posts unedited obituaries on its Web site, www.danielschapel.com .
The Observer – Obituaries for the week ending March 17, 2007