Michael Blackman

Michael Blackman

Tinton Falls - Michael Lawrence Blackman of Tinton Falls New Jersey, passed away peacefully at his home Saturday morning, after a valiant fight against Parkinson's Plus. Predeceased by his parents Saul and Mary Blackman of Elizabeth, Michael attended Thomas Jefferson High School and was a decorated veteran of the Vietnam War, serving as a radio operator during the TET offensive. After the military, he received his Bachelor's Degree from Newark State (Kean University) and later his Master's Degree in administration from Monmouth University. For over 30 years Michael taught English, and later film studies at Monmouth Regional High School, where he coached hundreds of students in track, gymnastics, and softball. On fall Saturdays, he loved his "side job" as the PA announcer for the Monmouth Falcons football team, and managed to make even a minimal play dramatic. He was always recognized in retirement with his ageless look and his sharp memory for student names. After leaving teaching, he frequently worked behind the scenes helping his wife Bonnie with her Jostens publishing business. He often joked that she should have sold something lighter than yearbooks, which he "volunteered" to move every Spring for her cover workshop! Michael's love of theatre involved both school productions and local groups, and a painting of him with a giant rabbit used in a production of Harvey holds a prominent place in the Blackman living room. A member of Suneagles Golf Club for over 15 years, Michael preferred to walk, not ride, and loved the challenge of reading a difficult putt. Of course, he also was a big fan of the 19th hole where he and Bonnie enjoyed a brew, spent time with friends, and where his dry sense of humor and quick wit were always on display. Michael is survived by his wife Bonnie (Levine) Blackman, his sister Paula (Blackman) Hymanson, his nephew Howard Diamond (wife Mindy and great nephews Louis and Jason), his niece Ilene Lehman (husband Ira), his Levine family in Orlando (brother-in-law Harvey and new angel Marie) and Griffin family (Sean, Tiffany, Jack, and Cole), his Jostens buddies Rick Brooks and Jack the cat, and his many friends, colleagues, and former students. In lieu of flowers, donations in his honor should be made to The Bay, 2005 Y St. Lincoln, NE 68503. The Bay is a special place to Michael and Bonnie that celebrates community, and supports young people and their dreams. When you think of Michael, laugh at a great memory, have a cold IPA, be sure to smile, and know that he took every ounce out of life. A graveside service will held at Mt. Lebanon Cemetery, Iselin, NJ, on January 18th, 2021 at 11am where masks & social distancing will be required. Bloomfield-Cooper Jewish Chapels, Ocean, are in charge of arrangements.