CHRISTOPHER L. BLACKLER

BLACKLER, Christopher L. Age 59, of Jeffries Point, East Boston and Uphams Corner, Dorchester. We are deeply saddened by the loss of our beloved, big brother, Chris ("Unk Chris" to his nephew), who passed away on Monday, March 3, at Boston's Sherrill House, where he resided for the last few years. Chris is survived by his brother, Robert Blackler, Jr. and sister-in-law, Jessica of Brookline Village; his sister, Laura Blackler; and nephew, Graham Brown of Maine; his aunt and godmother, Margaret Mitchell of Hooksett, NH; his aunt, Dorothy Reed of Kingston, MA; and many adoring cousins and friends. A private Memorial Service was held at Bell-O'Dea Funeral Home in BROOKLINE VILLAGE. In remembrance of Chris's amazing life, we ask that friends and family donate in his honor to the Autism Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) (https://autisticadvocacy.org/) When Chris was diagnosed with autism at age two, our parents faced pressure to "send him away," as was common at the time. Refusing to accept this, Mom delved into research and as a family, we worked tirelessly to support Chris. Through our combined efforts, we helped reduce his dissociation, improve his focus and nurture his communication skills, so he could clearly express his needs and emotions. In the early-to mid-1970s, Mom volunteered with the Federation for Children with Special Needs, working to increase parental involvement in advocating for Massachusetts Chapter 766. This groundbreaking legislation made special education in public schools a legal requirement, paving the way for a national movement. She testified before the U.S. Senate, emphasizing the critical need for mandatory Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Her efforts contributed to the protection and support of tens of millions of children, ensuring they receive tailored educational opportunities. Chris internalized mom's persistence, instilling a lifelong passion for social justice. For decades, he sat on several citizen's committees, contributing to decisions that would impact the entire City of Boston: the MBTA Riders Committee, representing disabled citizens, the Big Dig Committee, with input on the various pedestrian detours during construction and use of the open space once the old Expressway was taken down, the Pier's Park Committee, deciding on the park's layout and community activities (sailing, children's playground and water park, etc.) and up until late 2017, planning community gardens in unused spaces all over the city. With compassion, empathy and non-judgment, Chris changed minds wherever he went. He selflessly pioneered equity for people with autism, through his fierce independence, thoughtfulness and intelligence. For his beloved Boston, his tireless work inadvertently gained the respect of thousands. Thank you for honoring Chris's memory by supporting ASAN.