Thomas “Rocky” R. Blackbourn

FENNIMORE - Thomas “Rocky” R. Blackbourn, age 69, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday February 11, 2025. He was born on June 4, 1955, the son of Roger and Donna (Pettera) Blackbourn. Rocky was united in marriage to his first wife and mother of his children, Donita “Blondie” Bean on June 17, 1983. They shared many wonderful years together until her passing in 2020. He was then united in marriage to Kim Burkheimer on November 9, 2022.

From the very beginning, Rocky’s life was fueled by his passion for truck driving. His journey started with IOCO in 1982, and in 2001, he began hauling fuel for Petro Oil Transport, where he remained a vibrant and active member of the crew. His love of trucking was not just a career; it was a legacy that he proudly passed down to his sons and grandchildren. He believed that when you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life.

Beyond the open road, Rocky’s heart belonged to his family and friends. He cherished moments spent in Bagley, relaxing on the water in the pontoon. He also loved fishing, snowmobiling, UTV riding, spending quality time with his grandchildren, and supporting their various activities.  To know Rocky was to love him; his quick wit and infectious humor was sure to leave you with a smile. Whether he was gifting you with a playful nickname or sharing his bright smile, Rocky’s spirit was a source of light and happiness for everybody around him.

Rocky is survived by his loving wife, Kim Blackbourn; four children: Marty (Heidi) O’Meara, Corrie O’Meara, Nick (Emily) Blackbourn, and Jay (Amanda) Blackbourn; 10 grandchildren: Owen and Dylan O’Meara; Layna, Ridley, and Lexy O’Meara; Reid, Etta, and Nash Blackbourn; Tay Blackbourn; and Isla Edwards; three step-children: Brock (Samantha) Edwards, Brooklyn Freestone (Konner Ellenson), and Braeden Freestone (Makenna Monson); mother, Donna Blackbourn; brother, Mark (Jan) Blackbourn; and mother-in-law and father-in-law, Allen and Vicki Burkheimer. He was preceded in death by his father, Roger, and first wife, Blondie.