Albert L. "Abby" Blodnikar

Albert L. "Abby" Blodnikar, 72, of Browndale, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by friends and family on Thursday, Dec. 10, after a brief illness.

Born in Carbondale, son of the late Albert and Amelia Chesnick Blodnikar, he was a member of Ascension Parish, Forest City. He was a 1966 graduate of Forest City Regional High School. Albert served a short stint in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. Before his retirement, he was the owner and operator of Carpetron, Forest City. He was a well-known carpenter throughout the tri-state area, known for his precision and dedication to each job individually. He was a passionate baseball player and fan, and he was especially happy when his favorite team, the Los Angeles Dodgers, won the pennant this year. He spent many years participating in various local softball leagues, including the Over 50 League. He enjoyed traveling to historical sites, his favorite being where the Battle of Saratoga was fought. Abby was an avid reader, whose favorite topics included law and history. He loved all things in nature, and one of his favorite outdoor activities included hunting. He had fond memories of hiking in the Adirondack Mountains. He always enjoyed a good conversation about politics. He always encouraged people to think outside the box.

Surviving are a sister, Michele Durmiaki, Forest City; several nieces; one great-nephew; one great-niece; and one aunt, Pauline Nadzak, Browndale.

He was also preceded in death by two sisters, Mary Ann Munley and Debbie Yeich.

The funeral will be Monday, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in Saint Joseph's Church, Delaware Street, Forest City. Interment will be held at a later date. Friends may call at the church from 9:30 a.m. until Mass time. Arrangements by the Jones & Brennan Funeral Home, 430 Main St., Forest City.

For directions or to send online condolences, visit the funeral home website.