Donald P. Blaisdell

Donald P. Blaisdell, 84, of Throop, passed peacefully on October 10, 2024 surrounded by family. He was born on August 11, 1940 in Auburn, NY to the late Donald (“Barney”) Blaisdell and Erma (Rice) Blaisdell. Don or “Butch” as he was known by those closest to him is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Lynn (Treat) Blaisdell, daughters Lisa Dates (Michael), Emily Carpenter (Steven), and Kathleen Romanowski (Andrea.) He was a devoted husband and father, and the best Bumpa to his five grandchildren: Elise Dates, Ryan Dates, Jack Carpenter, Benjamin Carpenter, and Addalynn Romanowski. He is also survived by his sisters Kay Crisci and Brenda Caves, as well as several nieces and nephews, including his very special nephew Joseph Valerio, with whom he shared a great love of the outdoors. In addition to his parents, Don was predeceased by his sister Linda Pease and brother LeRoy Blaisdell. 

After graduating from Central High in Auburn, Don served in the United States Air Force for four years. He earned an associates degree from Auburn Community College, as well as a bachelor and two masters degrees from SUNY Brockport and SUNY Oswego, respectively. Don was an educator who began his career in the Union Springs Central School District as a history teacher. He was then asked to teach GED courses at Auburn Correctional Facility, where he worked for more than 30 years and helped many men earn their high school equivalency diplomas, even helping some learn to read. Don was passionate about academics and a lifelong learner and educator. While teaching at ACF, Don was able to work with CCC to provide higher learning opportunities for incarcerated individuals who sought to go beyond a GED. Don continued working until this year as a driver for Fox Auto Group.

Don was an avid sportsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and golf. He traveled all over the US and Canada to hunt and fish, with his favorite adventures found in the Adirondacks, Catskills, and Saskatchewan, Canada.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1PM, on Sunday, November 10, 2024 at Throop Fire Hall, 7159 Beech Tree Road, Auburn, NY . In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Finger Lakes SPCA of Central New York or the Throop Fire Department. Condolences may be made at www.brewfuneralhome.com

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