Obituary of Richard W. Blackburn

Olmstedville: Richard W. Blackburn, 67, of County Route 29, passed away peacefully, Saturday, November 2, 2013 with his loving wife by his side. Born June 4, 1946 in Ticonderoga, he was the son of the late Robert Russell and Elvera (Rawlins) Blackburn. Following his graduation from the Minerva Central School, Rick enlisted in the United States Army where he was part of the 56th Engineering Battalion in Alaska. While stationed at Fort Richardson, he assisted in laying 2,700’ of railroad track for the Moose Gooser Railway for the Alaskan Centennial in December of 1966. Following his honorable discharge from the military, Rick began working for the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, Division of Lands and Forests. He was the last to man the fire tower on Prospect Mountain before it was dismantled and removed. Besides spending time with his family, to whom he was strongly devoted to, Rick enjoyed fishing, hunting, cars and motorcycles; he was also a member of HOG. Besides his parents, he is predeceased by his brother, Eugene Blackburn and sister, Beverly Blackburn. He is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Sharon Blackburn of Olmstedville; two sons, David and Daniel Blackburn, both of Olmstedville; a sister, Joan Blackburn of Port Henry; three brothers, Robert Blackburn of Coos Bay, OR, William Blackburn and his wife, Christine of North Creek, and Gary Blackburn, also of Coos Bay, OR. He also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, and cousins. At Rick’s request, there are no calling hours scheduled. A memorial service will be conducted privately at the convenience of his family. Rick’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. James Hicks, Dr. Daniel Way, and the staff at HHHN, as well as the Minerva Rescue Squad for the exceptional care given to Rick throughout the years. Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to the Minerva Volunteer Fire and Rescue, 1495 State Route 28N, Minerva, NY 12851. Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online guestbook and condolences.