Herschel A. "Allen"

Blades

Herschel A. "Allen" Blades, 97, of Columbus, Indiana, passed away peacefully and went to be with the Lord on Sunday, November 8, 2026.

Allen was born to Herschel and Dora Blades in Oak Park, Illinois, on February 11, 1929. He was raised in Flat Rock, Indiana, where he spent most of his childhood living with his parents, uncle, paternal grandfather, and sister.

Allen spent his life guided by the values he learned at an early age in a rural community: hard work, independence, and quiet determination. After high school, he attended Franklin College and Indiana Business College. Allen worked in a variety of positions, primarily in detail-oriented and accounting-related roles. In 1959, he began a long career in government service with the Air Force Reserve. Through his dedication and reliability, he earned the respect and admiration of his coworkers.

Although he never married, Allen remained closely connected to his sister and extended family throughout his life. He enjoyed the simple pleasures of home, appreciated the rural communities that shaped him, and valued the friendships and relationships he cultivated over the years.

Allen was an avid sports fan, especially of the Indiana Hoosiers. He was particularly fond of Steve Alford and followed his early coaching career at Manchester College, where he developed many friendships and acquaintances. Allen was also a 50-year member of the Farmers Lodge F&AM in Norristown, Indiana.

He was preceded in death by his parents and other beloved family members. He is survived by his sister, Janet Fairhead, Philip Newton, a cousin, and many second cousins and their families who will remember him with affection and gratitude.

Funeral services will be conducted at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 19th, at Norman Funeral Home in Hope, Indiana, with Philip Newton officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Hope Moravian Cemetery.

Online condolences may be expressed to Allen's family at www.normanfuneralhome.net.