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JAMES JOSEPH BLAISDELL

1964 - 2015

JAMES BLAISDELL Obituary

JAMES JOSEPH BLAISDELL - BOSTON, Mass. - James Joseph Blaisdell, 50, of Boston, Mass., died suddenly at home on Jan. 28, 2015. He was born in Salina, Kansas, on March 22, 1964. James grew up in Burlington, Vt., where he graduated from Burlington High School in 1982 and received his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Vermont in 1992. He completed a Master of Business Administration in Finance and Marketing from the Katz School of Business at the University of Pittsburgh in 1993. After working in banking and finance in Pittsburgh and Boston, James relocated to Galway, Ireland, where he completed a Master of Science in Information Systems Management, with high honors, at the National University of Ireland in 2012. He remained in Galway as a highly regarded lecturer at the university, before returning to Boston last year. James was a standout athlete and a fearless competitor in hockey and football. He loved sports, embracing Boston's teams as his own. James greatly valued knowledge and education, and was a voracious and wide-ranging reader. He lived life to its fullest, and he brought his unique excitement and passion for life to everything he did. To those he loved, James was a fiercely loyal friend, one who had your back while unafraid to speak the hard truths. James was and will always be deeply loved by all who knew him. His presence will be missed; his memory lives in our hearts. James was predeceased by his father, United States Air Force Captain Maurice A. "Buzz" Blaisdell. He is survived by his mother, Mary Ann Blaisdell; brothers, Steven Blaisdell and Edward Blaisdell; aunt, Loraine Colman; niece, Marcelle Downing-Blaisdell; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends. The family will receive friends from 3 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015, at Ready Funeral Home, 261 Shelburne Rd., Burlington. A brief memorial will follow at 4 p.m. Arrangements are in the care of the Ready Funeral & Cremation Service, Inc. To send online condolences please visit www.readyfuneral.com. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Children's Literacy Foundation, 1536 Loomis Hill Road, Waterbury Center, VT 05677.

Published by The Burlington Free Press on Feb. 13, 2015.
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Memories and Condolences
for JAMES BLAISDELL

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I am so sorry to hear about James' unexpected passing. I was very good friends with James for a long time. We first met at the University of Pittsburgh and shared an apartment in Pittsburgh for a few years after we had graduated. We continued to be good friends even after he moved back to Burlington briefly and then later to Boston. We always got together whenever my work travels took me up there. Sadly I lost touch with James after he moved to Ireland. I will always remember him for his loyalty to not only to me, but all of his friends. He had a way of telling you the hard truth while inspiring you to do whatever it would take to make things better. He gave everything he had to everything he did. I often wished I was more like him in many ways. I miss him very much. My condolences to his entire family.

Justin Luzar

Friend

November 14, 2017

I only knew James briefly when he, his brother Steven and I lived together in an apartment in Brooklyn, NY. "Force of nature" is the phrase that comes to mind. I will always remember his booming laugh. He was a lover of life and an amazing, funny, creative guy. He made a big impression on me and I regret that we were not in contact more. My condolences to the whole family. You are missed, James.

Ty Montague

March 14, 2015

Maryann, Steve, and Ed,
I am so sad and sorry to hear of James' passing.I will always remember what a great kid he was growing up with the Francis girls. Please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Marti

Marti Patry

February 26, 2015

Mary Ann, Steve and Ed

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are so saddened by your loss of James

Marilyn McSweeney and family

February 25, 2015

Dear Mary Ann, Ed & Steve,
So sorry to hear of your tragic loss. So sorry I missed the opportunity to see you and express my condolences in person. I was just returning from a lengthy Canadian trip.
James is one to remember. Strong, vibrant personality, great energy, very intelligent. My husband John, thought very highly of James and had great confidence in his abilities and future. I wish John were here as he, John, would have much to say to each of you of fond and meaningful memories.
My heartfelt sympathy at the loss of James. I wish I could say more that would be of some comfort to you.

Sincerely and Sadly, Sara Burchard

Sara Burchard

February 25, 2015

He loved the song Coldplay I will fix you! And he loved Galway especially rugby! He loved life! And he loved lots of candy
But he was a friend always for life.
Love always James
Jennie xx

February 21, 2015

James was a friend for life! I was so saddened to hear of his passing. He loved Galway, and loved walking along salthill watching the waves. Go by. My thoughts are with all your family.
Jennie & flynn Galway

February 21, 2015

I will never forgot all the fun times James and i had a kids. Every day we made an adventure. they have all stuck with me my whole life. Such is the effect of having such a personable and creative buddy at a young age. I'm blessed to have called you friend. My prayers to Mrs. Blaisdell, my ol friend Eddie and Steve. James, I hope your Dad is with you, and lily. peace be with you.

Jeff Gilbert

February 21, 2015

I am so sad to have heard this news. Mrs. Blaisdell, Steve & Ed, I offer my deepest & heartfelt condolences. Some of my oldest childhood memories involve James. I will always cherish them.

Brian Smith

February 20, 2015

Aunt Mary Ann, Steven and Edward

So sorry to hear about James' passing.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Susan Sherman Lachance

February 20, 2015

Aunt Mary Ann, Steven and Edward,
So sorry to hear about James. You
are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

Susan Sherman Lachance

February 20, 2015

Mary Ann, Stephen and Edward
I was shocked when Joel called with the news about James. We shared so much when the boys were growing up. You all have my deepest sympathy. Distance prevents me from being there.
You are all in my prayers.
Love
Rose

Rose Hirsch

February 20, 2015

My best friend ever.sorry for your loss to the whole Blaisdell family.you were my secound family and i miss you all.my thoughts and prayers are with you.sadiest day of my life.bye dog.miss you.

joel hirsch

February 20, 2015

Aunt Mary Ann, Cousins Steve and Edward,
I am so sorry for your loss. All my siblings are in shock; every one of my family loved James, and he was such a gentleman to us on our visits. I will cherish my memories. I wish I had come out more often.

Tom Browne

February 20, 2015

My sincere condolences to the Blaisdell family on the loss of such an endearing person. May you find strength and comfort from our Heavenly Father. (Psalm 9:9)

February 19, 2015

James had a profound effect on me even though I didn't know him well. A great athlete, a huge WARDS fan drew us closer. Sorry Steve and the rest of your family for your loss.

Paul Allison

February 19, 2015

I am sorry for your loss, James was one of my favourite Lecturers last year at NUI Galway, James was always willing to stop and answer questions as well as go the extra mile to help, and help me he did on few occasions. As a fellow New Englander in Ireland following a similar path as James we had the chance to have several conversations outside of class, I am very sad to hear of his passing he will be missed here in Galway but not forgotten.
Kevin Saich

Kevin Saich

February 19, 2015

Losing your loved one (James) suddenly has to be one of the most devastating experiences your family has had to face. The pain seems unbearable when memories of his smiles, laughter and hugs can no longer be seen or felt. Our Heavenly Father "is close to those brokenhearted and crushed in spirit" May you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. My condolences goes out to the Blaisdell family.

February 18, 2015

Thoughts and prayers to the Blaisdell family during this difficult time. Grew up with Blaisdell boys down Shore Rd. Sounds like James achieved huge during his too-short life. May he rest in peace.

Penny Bergman Caussade

February 16, 2015

Dear Blaisdell Family~
Wishing you peace, comfort and courage in the days ahead. May your loving memories stay forever in your hearts.

Heather (McGivney) and Shawn Bara

February 16, 2015

Ed and Blaisdell Family,

James and I were roommates on Buell St. in 1986/87. He was a one-of-a-kind friend who always had your back. Sorry to hear about this
David Navari (aka "Elmer")

February 16, 2015

MaryAnn, Steve, Ed: I am so sorry to hear of James' passing. He was such a ray of sunshine in our lives, and such a brilliant person. He taught me more than I ever taught him. Hugs to all of you.

Peg Gilbert

February 16, 2015

I was surprised and saddened to hear of James passing. James is a cousin. I have fond memories James and his brothers our grandfather's farm, at the lake house and at the Champlain Valley fair. I have not been in touch with James for many years, but from the notes listed, it is apparent that he touched the lives of many and was loved by those who knew him. My deepest sympathies to the Blaisdell family. Our prayers are with you.

Dave Sherman

February 15, 2015

My condolences to Steve, Ed and the Blaisdell family. We were very near Galway around this time last year and we almost had a meet up for the ages. James was busy with school and we were heading south. All those details seem silly now. Very glad he came to the HS Reunion. He was legendary for his alleged 'photographic memory'... a brilliant mind. You left an impression on just about everyone, which can be gauged by the wave of sentiment surrounding this loss. RIP

Anne Rothwell

February 14, 2015

Dear Blaisdell Family,
Please accept my heartfelt sympathies on the unexpected loss of James. I was so happy to reconnect with him at the BHS class of '82 reunion. I was so impressed to hear of his many accomplishments. The photo is from L.C. Hunt 7th grade year book (celebrating Greaser Day) this is where I first met James.
May your many fond memories of James help to sustain you at this most difficult time.
Llynne Carpenter Kiernan

February 14, 2015

Many thoughts & prayers to your family. May you be with GOD forever more!
RIP James...

Pam Root

February 14, 2015

Mary Ann.....It broke my heart to learn of James' passing. I still think of those beautiful boys of the New North End years ago when they played baseball and hockey and went to school together, and I wish I was back in VT right now to just put my arms around you and share a few tears. God bless James and may he rest in peace and begin a new life with his Dad.

Libby Dwinell

February 14, 2015

So sorry to hear this news, my condolences to the Blaisdell Family. Kim (Kimmie as James called her) and I had many good times with James, he will not be forgotten. RIP my friend.

Denise Klingel-Manning

February 14, 2015

Sorry to hear this news he was a good guy I knew James from school and I'm sorry for your loss RIP James thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.

February 14, 2015

I am stunned. He was a pleasure to talk with a truly gifted individual. I never met anyone like Blazer. A good hearted guy. May God Bless the Blaisdell Family...

Tony Brice

February 14, 2015

Remembering fun times growing up. RIP James

Rodney Bouffard

February 13, 2015

Though I never met James, I had heard of him through Ed and his mother, Mary Ann. I am so very sorry to hear about this loss to your family. Hugs and prayers for all of you. Tracy Fitz

February 13, 2015

Mrs. Blaisdell, Steve and Ed.

I cannot find the words to express my sorrow and heartfelt condolences. Not only was James a great teammate throughout the years we played hockey together, he was a brilliant man and even better friend.

Rest in peace "Blazer."

I love you, Michael Morrissey

February 13, 2015

Mary Ann and family....our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. Judy and I both saddened by the death of James.

Bob and Judy Ayers

February 13, 2015

my thoughts and prayers to you, Maryann, Stephen and Edward. A strong spirit that will be missed.

Chris Wood

February 13, 2015

My heart is broken. I love James with all my heart. He was a best friend and another brother to me. I have endless memories of the years we spent together and I will cherish them forever. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Blaisdell family.

kim rudner

February 13, 2015

Stevie, Ed, Mopsey,
He was my bro too. A huge void inside me, in us all. What a brilliant mind! Blazer we love you...

Chris Gnaedinger

February 13, 2015

Mrs. B and family, So sorry to hear of James passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers
Peace,
Rob and Judy Hemingway

To Hemingway

February 13, 2015

Sad to hear.... peace and love

matt sweet

February 13, 2015

So sorry for your loss. I have great memories of playing together at the beach as little children. My prayers are with your family now.

Shawn McSweeney

February 13, 2015

Maryann - So sorry to hear of your loss. You are often in my thoughts.

Kelly Jennings Snyder

February 13, 2015

James and I grew up together on Briarwood Lane when we were little. He was Tom Sawyer and I was Becky and was a wonderful spirit. I wish I had known he was here in Boston all this time. I'm so sad to hear he is gone too soon and my prayers are for his family during this time.

Phyllis DeLaricheliere

February 13, 2015

Very saddened to hear this news, I am so sorry for your loss. My sympathy, thoughts and prayers are being sent to you during this time of need.

Deb (Solomon) Dewees

February 13, 2015

I am so sad to hear this news. James was always so nice. I have great memories of growing up next to him. May he rest in peace.

abby Kelley

February 13, 2015

I am so sad to hear this news. James was always so nice and I have so many great memories of him growing up next door to him.

February 13, 2015

My thoughts and prayers are with the Blaisdell family. I remember James hanging around with my brother Tim, Jimmy Catella, and the whole crew. Great memories. RIP

Doug Carrier

February 13, 2015

Sincerest condolences to you and your family, Ed.

Patti (Ianni) Wehman

February 13, 2015

My heartfelt condolences to all the family. He was a good man and friend. May he rest in peace. Lord bless all those who loved him in thier time of need. AMEN.

wayne savard

February 13, 2015

Many years have passed since I last saw James but I remeber him as such as outgoing well liked guy. Prayers to his family.

Cindy Kane Trombly

February 13, 2015

My condolences to the Blaisdell Family. James was a great guy...

Sue Lee

February 13, 2015

So very sorry to hear of James' passing. My deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the Blaisdell family. I love you all. Though I haven't seen you in years, I have fond memories of being together at Grandma and Grandpa Blaisdell's house.

Michelle Gray

February 13, 2015

So sorry to hear of this.My prayers go out to the Blaisdell family."Blazer"willl be missed.

February 13, 2015

My heart sank when I received word of James' passing. Although we did not stay in close touch after high school, whenever I did see James we had a great time catching up with each other. I have fond memories growing up with him, playing hockey together, "hanging out" and "tuning out" to Aerosmith and Led Zeppelin among other things. Lots of good memories. Regardless, of what age you met "Blazer" he was, as many have said, larger than life. A huge personality with an equally huge heart. My sympathy goes out to the Blaisdell family. James is gone too soon, but I feel privileged to call him my friend.

Rick Palin

February 13, 2015

Finest memories of James in middle school. Always was so nice to me What a true spirit. He loved so many. So many loved him. My prayers to you all

Mary ann Johnson

February 13, 2015

Ed I am so sorry to hear of your brother's passing. My thoughts and prayer's are with you always

Robin Sweeney

February 13, 2015

I will never forget James.He was such an important part of my childhood.He had such a remarkable mind, and was talented in every way.I wish it had the chance to know the man he grew up to be.
Barbara Tang Rosenthal
Baltimore,MD

Barbara Tang Rosenthal

February 13, 2015

My thoughts and prayers to the Blaisdell family. Many great memories of James as a friend and teammate. God Bless.

Paul Leavitt

February 13, 2015

So sorry to hear of James's passing. He was, as we say here, a great character. Always positive and helpful. Rest In Peace James.

Joe Toner

February 13, 2015

Sending thoughts and prayers to the Blaisdell Family. My heart aches for you. Rest in Peace James

Kathy Romeo

February 13, 2015

RIP friend

tony martel

February 13, 2015

I am so sorry to hear of this sad news! I'm glad I got to catch up with James at our reunion a few years back . Sending healing thoughts and prayers to Eddie and all of the Blaisdell family xo

Catherine Stillinger

February 13, 2015

Jim,

You will be dearly missed by your friends and colleagues.

You were an amazing lecturer.

The MSc class of 2013 were honoured to nominate you for the President's Award for teaching. As was typical form you brushed it aside and did not want to be taking credit for your outstanding work.

You even skipped out on your own graduation ceremony to give students preparation feedback on their assignments before exams. Such was your commitment to teaching.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.

Eoin Cullina

February 13, 2015

Sending peace,love,and,prayers to the Blaisdell family .so sorry for your loss..I have fond memories of James...

Mandy (Vail)Dandridge

February 13, 2015

I am a cousin. My father and your grandfather were brothers. I am sorry that I did not know you. My regards to you family. Bernice Blaisdell Thayer

February 13, 2015

Love you big Brother....I will miss you...

Kirsten Francis-Booth

February 13, 2015

Rest in peace James. You were so full of life and will be missed.

Roger Sweetman

February 13, 2015

Since sympathies to James family and friends on his untimely passing. It came as quite a shock to everyone here in Galway to hear this terrible news. I worked very closely with James during his time in Ireland and got to know him quite well. He certainly didn't do things by halves. If he put his mind to something, he wouldn't just do it, - he would do it exceptionally well. It just seems like yesterday that he was sitting in my office talking about his plans. So sad to hear about his sudden passing. Comhbhrn chro lena chlann na gcairde uilig in irinn. Rest easy James.

Michael Lang

February 13, 2015

James,

You were a larger than life and you enjoyed your time while in Ireland.

Gone too soon. Take care.

Kindest Regards,
Michael Kelly

February 13, 2015

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261 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

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261 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

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