Obituaries

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved, Henry Kellen Blackmore, age 18, on February 8^th, 2026, after a long struggle with mental health.

The son of David and Kelly (Kellen), Henry was born on March 2^nd, 2007.  He quickly hit his milestones; he started walking at 8 months old and by the age of two had taught himself to read. When Henry was three years old in an eagerness to be a big kid, he packed three goldfish in a lunchbox and walked by himself two blocks to the elementary school hoping to join his siblings. Henry deeply loved and admired his brother and sisters.

As he grew, Henry excelled at math and explored sports like basketball, soccer, and baseball. During a t-ball game at the age of six he decided to mix it up a bit. After he’d hit the ball off the tee while running to first base, he pulled another ball out of his pocket and threw it into center field to distract the other players. A moment that had the crowd in stitches. Henry often made us smile with his cleverness and humor. Although he enjoyed video games, Henry also loved having everyone around the table to play board games. He was a fierce competitor in Monopoly, Clue, Spy Alley, Ticket to Ride and so many other games.

One of Henry’s favorite places was the family cottage on Fish Lake. It was full of cousins and adventures. Finding turtles and jumping off the water trampoline were a sure way to have fun. He especially enjoyed the fishing derby around the fourth of July.

In 2021, Henry graduated from 8^th grade earning a presidential award for his high marks. In 2025, he graduated from Geneva Community High School where he played both high school and club volleyball. Henry was very passionate about the sport. In his college essay he wrote “When I reflect on my high school career, I realize that my love for volleyball has shaped my life. Being neurodiverse is hard but I did better in school. The sport has also provided me a constant stress-reliever during challenging times, a place where I can channel my emotions. Now, as I look to the future, I am excited. Whether I continue to play competitively, casually, or even coach, volleyball will always hold a special place in my heart.” Henry felt a deep sense of brotherhood with his teammates and a true sense of belonging. Off the court Henry volunteered at volleyball clinics for younger kids and helped with tournaments.

Henry earned an academic scholarship and after high school he attended North Central College where he continued to play volleyball, studied applied mathematics and explored the possibility of becoming a teacher.

Henry is survived by his parents David Blackmore of St. Charles, IL and Kelly Kellen of Geneva, IL plus his 3 siblings Sophie Blackmore, Nathan Blackmore, and Sarah Studer. He was grandson to Arnold and Peggy Kellen of Antioch, IL and nephew to Karyn (Eric) Witt of Chesterton, IN; Sandra (Kevin) True of St. Charles, IL; Brian (Lisa) Blackmore of Geneva, IL; Scott (Dawn) Blackmore of Lockport, IL, and Michael (Monica) Kellen of Geneva, IL; along with 11 cousins – Dr. Keith (Lauren) True,  Dr. Kelsey True (Dr. Chris Robinson), Kyle True, Maxwell Witt, Mason Witt, Lindsay Blackmore, Adam Blackmore, Zac Blackmore, Avery Blackmore, Mia Kellen, and Charlie Kellen; and three second cousins – Harrison, Sally ,and Francis True.

Henry was preceded in death by his loving grandparents, Frank and Judith (nee Yormark) Blackmore and second cousin, Charlotte True.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Jed Foundation or Good Sports in honor of Henry.

Visitation will be February 20^th from 4 to 8:00 P.M. at the Yurs Funeral Home Geneva. Funeral Mass will be February 21^st at 10:30 A.M. at St. Peters Catholic Church Geneva. For further information call Yurs Funeral Home Geneva. 630-232-7337

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