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Dan Blackstone Obituary
Courageous in spirit, disciplined and bold, he brought excitement to life and learning. At 17, Dan proudly enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served as an aerial photographer at the end of WWII. Photography remained a passion for Dan and he documented his travels (in 50 States and 34 countries) people, landscape, art, architecture and especially, design in clouds and geological formations through the camera lens. The narrated family slide shows soon received community audience in hospitals, nursing homes, schools, churches, libraries and art shows.
Throughout his life, Dan shared his joy of observing beauty and wonder in the natural world while hiking in the great outdoors with his children and grandchildren and his many students at Norwich Free Academy (1957-1989). With a Masters in Biological Sciences, he taught earth science, marine bio, zoology and math and also taught driver's ed. Community services during teaching years were: Civil Air Patrol (CAP RI), Camp Counselor (Wightman), Wequetequock Volunteer Firefighter, Survival Instructor, Fencing Coach (YMCA & NFA: 1st Women's Varsity Sport) and BSA Leader (Woodbadge).
Since "retirement" from high school teaching, Dan got licensed to pursue several other careers. He became a real estate agent for income (but gave away the profits) and author for preserving history and telling a story. He was a regular Aesop with his nightly bedtime stories which offered revised renditions of our escapades that day, delivered through characters Jumpy the Deer, Tamias Striatus and Briar Rabbit with a moral to the tale. His duties as Justice of the Peace, Notary Public, Driver and EMT for Stonington Ambulance and Docent at Slater Museum (Norwich) were provided as service.
Dan instilled a desire to be your best and strive for the unreachable, curiosity to see what lies around the corner or the top of the hill and to help those in need.
Dan is survived by his wife of almost 68 years, Barbara Aiello Blackstone, son David (wife Maria) daughters Dara B Hayashi (Shigeru deceased) and Beth B, Sardelli (Matthew), 7 grandchildren: Nicolette, Arielle & Declan Blackstone, Victoria (husband Connor), Andrew, Christian & Tia Sardelli, sister Deborah North and 17 nieces and nephews and their children who also call him "Uncle Dan".
There will be no service or calling hours. In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to Slater Museum, NFA, 108 Crescent St. Norwich, CT 06360.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Dan Blackstone
Sponsored by Mystic Funeral Home - Mystic.
Jeffrey Trantalis
October 12, 2023
Make indulgences to a wonderful teacher and person. He joined us at our 50th high school reunion, and it was a pleasure to see him again after all those years.
Fred
October 12, 2023
NFA Class of `78, Fred Alletto here... Mr. Black stone was one of my favorite teachers. Dan was a truly great man who lived a great life. My stories and those of my classmates are endless. Dan taught life. A great gift, indeed.
Jeffrey Trantalis
October 12, 2021
I had Mr Blackstone as my science teacher in 1969. We took topographical elevation lines of the hill behind the school. It was a great learning experience
Jeffrey trantalis
December 14, 2020
Mr Blackstone as my science teacher in high school, kept my aspirations alive for my love for science. I took this interest to the next level and became a doctor. Thank you.
Brenda & Carl Johnsen
December 11, 2020
I just found out today that Dan had passed. I was googling his name so I could send him a card, you see Dan had been kind enough to be the photographer at our wedding 20 years ago Dec. 16th and I was just looking thru the beautiful pictures he took. Dave, Maria, Nicolette, Arielle and Declan were all part of our marriage. Dan was a great man and did wonderful things in his life. Please accept our heartfelt condolences to the Blackstone family, and to Barbara, I know you have lost the love of your life. My you find peace in all the memories you have together.
Fred Alletto
October 29, 2020
Mr. Blackstone was one of the finest teachers ever to patrol the halls at NFA. Woe to you if you did not possess the proper hallway pass! You left out accomplished fencer... Rest in peace Mr. Blackstone. It was an honor learning from you.
Vickie (Labenski) Rainville
October 25, 2020
What an amazing tribute/obituary for such a wonderful man. My sympathies to his family.
Mr. Blackstone was my teacher back in high school/sophomore year in the mid 80’s and boy did he inspire me to do my best work and think about more every time! Loved every minute of his class and wish our paths crossed after high school. RIP
Jeffrey Hankin
October 23, 2020
My deepest sympathies. It’s been a long time , but still remember Him.
Lou Manzi
October 23, 2020
Dan was truly an amazing man. I got to know him through his many visits to Pendleton Health and Rehabilitation where he shared his experience as a world traveler with our residents through his interesting travelogue programs. He was always full of life and joy and I am so glad I got to experience his wonderful spirit.
Richard Metayer
October 23, 2020
Dan volunteered at Pendleton RFest & Rehab for many years. I had the opportunity to work with him giving Travelogues to the Residents at Pendleton. We both had many experiences travelling about the world and complemented each other. Dan was a great person and we at Pendleton were fortunate to have met him. We miss him dearly
Cathy (Vounce) Levin
October 22, 2020
My sympathy to Mr. Blackstone's family. He was a wonderful teacher. Years after I graduated, I would meet up with him and he always had a smile and remembered who I was.
Ken and Linda Lamothe
October 22, 2020
We had the pleasure of working with Dan for many years. He was truly a Renaissance man. In recent years we would often chat with him at book fairs. Even in his 90s, his hand shake or hug would leave you almost bruised! Dan was one of a kind--and will be truly missed.
--Ken and Linda Lamothe
Wayne Natzel
October 22, 2020
I had Mr. Blackstone for earth science in 1969. He was tough on discipline, but a very good teacher. I've worked in public schools for 30 years now, and he did something then that wouldn't go over very well today. During one class, he took out the Bible, and read the story of creation. He never said it was true, or said that's what he believed (though I believe he did); he simply presented it as an alternative explanation for the creation of the heavens and the earth.
Even back then, in the late 1960's, that was a pretty gutsy thing to do.
My prayers are with Dara, my classmate at that time, and the rest of the family.
Mark Kulos
October 21, 2020
I never had him as a teacher, but I did travel with him. He escorted a student group from NFA for 5 weeks to Europe in 1977. He was a model of minimalism - claimed all he needed were the clothes on his back, a sports jacket, toothbrush and passport (he did pack a small suitcase). I learned a lot from him on that trip, including my lifelong love of travel and thirst to explore new cultures. Now he's on the greatest journey anyone can take. RIP Mr. Blackstone. My condolences to his wife and family members.
Bonnie Thomason Bazydlo
October 21, 2020
I am so saddened to learn the passing of Mr. Blackstone he was a wonderful person.
Anonymous
October 20, 2020
He sounds like he was an amazing guy! Beautifully written! Your family has a special angel.
Concetta ColonnaFranchetti
October 20, 2020
Dear Mrs Blackstone & family
I was so very sad to hear about my teacher,mentor, & amazing friend who I admired so much.
I can write so many great memories of Mr Blackstone but where do I begin?
Thank you Mr Blackstone..... an inspiration to everyone who met you.
You are our Angel.
Prayers to Mrs Blackstone & family.
I will never forget the Awesome Mr Blackstone✝
WILLIAM LANGLEY
October 20, 2020
My Freshman year Science teacher at NFA and driving class instructor. A great teacher and a unique and memorable man. Condolences.
Steve Basson
October 20, 2020
Had Mr Blackstone back in 1971 for Earth Science at NFA. Was a wonderful teacher and a better man. Still remembers Mohs scale of hardness. Thoughts are with the Family
Christine Wisniewski
October 20, 2020
Dan Blackstone was one of my high school science teachers at NFA in the early 1980s. I honestly don't remember what kind of science class it was — earth science? biology? What I do remember is that Mr. Blackstone had us all give talks to the class on various topics on a regular basis. They were brief presentations, probably not more than five minutes, but to me they were terrifying. I would panic over them for weeks before and then when one was finally over, he would assign a new one for the next round. Mr. Blackstone was stern and demanding. He expected a high level of work and a high level of integrity and character in his students, yet at the same time he was fair and supportive. He also had a good sense of humor. I don’t know how he managed to be both supportive and damanding at once, but he walked that line gracefully. He let me know that he had faith in me — that with practice I could succeed.
I learned over the course of that year how to get through those presentations. I never liked doing them, but I did learn how to over-prepare and practice so that whenever my nerves started acting up I could just go on auto-pilot and continue speaking. I still do that to this day. There were other teachers who had us do presentations here or there, but the way Mr. Blackstone had us do them helped me a long way to begin getting over my fear of public speaking.
People who have met me over the past few decades generally aren't aware of how shy I used to be when I was younger. It took years of work on my part to feel comfortable putting myself out there in the world. Actually, it took years of work just to get myself comfortable looking people in the eye when I speak to them. There have been a number of people who I credit with helping me become more confident over the years and I count Mr. Blackstone as one of them. He was one of my favorite teachers — even if I can't remember what subject I had him for! I’m sure I learned that too, but what I do remember learning from him was an invaluable life lesson. Thank you, Mr. Blackstone.
Christine Wisniewski
October 20, 2020
Dan Blackstone was one of my high school science teachers at NFA in the early 1980s. I honestly don't remember what kind of science class it was — earth science? biology? What I do remember is that Mr. Blackstone had us all give talks to the class on various topics on a regular basis. They were brief presentations, probably not more than five minutes, but to me they were terrifying. I would panic over them for weeks before and then when one was finally over, he would assign a new one for the next round. Mr. Blackstone was stern and demanding. He expected a high level of work and a high level of integrity and character in his students, yet at the same time he was fair and supportive. He also had a good sense of humor. I don’t know how he managed to be both supportive and demanding at once, but he walked that line gracefully. He let me know that he had faith in me — that with practice I could succeed.
I learned over the course of that year how to get through those presentations. I never liked doing them, but I did learn how to over-prepare and practice so that whenever my nerves started acting up I could just go on auto-pilot and continue speaking. I still do that to this day. There were other teachers who had us do presentations here or there, but the way Mr. Blackstone had us do them helped me a long way to begin getting over my fear of public speaking.
People who have met me over the past few decades generally aren't aware of how shy I used to be when I was younger. It took years of work on my part to feel comfortable putting myself out there in the world. Actually, it took years of work just to get myself comfortable looking people in the eye when I speak to them. There have been a number of people who I credit with helping me become more confident over the years and I count Mr. Blackstone as one of them. He was one of my favorite teachers — even if I can't remember what subject I had him for! I’m sure I learned that too, but what I do remember learning from him was an invaluable life lesson. Thank you, Mr. Blackstone.
Babara Perry
October 20, 2020
Mr. B was one of my Dad's best friends and a lifelong family friend. I will always remember him at events with his camera and for his wonderful poetry. He was a great man and will be missed by many, But now I know he is reunited with Dad and they are happy. Much love to Mrs. B., Dara and theentire family
Chris Wisniewski
October 20, 2020
Dan Blackstone was one of my high school science teachers at NFA in the early 1980s. I honestly don't remember what kind of science class it was — earth science? biology? What I do remember is that Mr. Blackstone had us all give talks to the class on various topics on a regular basis. They were brief presentations, probably not more than five minutes, but to me they were terrifying. I would panic over them for weeks before and then when one was finally over, he would assign a new one for the next round. Mr. Blackstone was stern and demanding. He expected a high level of work and a high level of integrity and character in his students, yet at the same time he was fair and supportive. He also had a good sense of humor. I don’t know how he managed to be both supportive and demanding at once, but he walked that line gracefully. He let me know that he had faith in me — that with practice I could succeed.
I learned over the course of that year how to get through those presentations. I never liked doing them, but I did learn how to over-prepare and practice so that whenever my nerves started acting up I could just go on auto-pilot and continue speaking. I still do that to this day. There were other teachers who had us do presentations here or there, but the way Mr. Blackstone had us do them helped me a long way to begin getting over my fear of public speaking.
People who have met me over the past few decades generally aren't aware of how shy I used to be when I was younger. It took years of work on my part to feel comfortable putting myself out there in the world. Actually, it took years of work just to get myself comfortable looking people in the eye when I speak to them. There have been a number of people who I credit with helping me become more confident over the years and I count Mr. Blackstone as one of them. He was one of my favorite teachers — even if I can't remember what subject I had him for! I’m sure I learned that too, but what I do remember learning from him was an invaluable life lesson. Thank you, Mr. Blackstone.
Lori Hurst
October 20, 2020
Mr Blackstone was a very dedicated individual to his students. His love of life has always remained with. I hated science but when you walked into his classroom for biology he made you see that it wasn’t just science it was about life and every living thing around you
One of the greatest gifts he gave me is my love of travel, to experience new places and people. But more importantly that everyone has a story to tell and it is our job to share it with others through photographs. NFA was and is an amazing high school let’s not forget all the opportunities that we were given.
Mr Sisco
October 19, 2020
I was a student of Mr. Blackstone @ NFA. He was a funny man. He gave me detention for chewing gum. I showed up. He told me, tomorrow, you are teaching class. I want you to make everything up. Complete nonsense. I’ll make everyone take notes. He checked towards the end of class. Then he told the entire class that I made everything up. I had to chuckle. Everyone was pissed. After that we got along very well. He was quite a character. RIP Mr. Blackstone.
October 19, 2020
Very sorry to hear of Dan’s passing. He was such an amazing man. He every so often would come and me when I worked at Fairview in Groton and we would talk of his childhood and our family. Great smile with lots of energy, and incredibly kind. Thoughts with you all during this difficult time.
Catherine Paparelli
Jeffrey Trantalis
October 19, 2020
Mr Blackstone was my freshman earth science teacher. Did not realize it at the time but he was an inspiration of my trek into the outdoors. It was a joy seeing and speaking to him at our reunion
Pat Bowman Moravek
October 19, 2020
Dan was the best teacher I ever had. He was my science teacher in freshman year at NFA and he followed my high school career. He was a pistol! He was tough but I always knew there was a very kind man inside! He was my "date" at my 50th reunion in 2019 and danced as much as the rest of us! Haha! We will all miss him, he was definitely a positive person in my life. He was full of life!
John and Almedia Livingston
October 19, 2020
Dear Barbara and family, John and I are so very sorry to hear Dan has passed. He certainly had an interesting fun filled life. Our deepest sympathy to you all.
John and Almedia Livingston
Bob Canova NFA class of 1978
October 19, 2020
Deepest condolences to Dan's family.
Mr. Blackstone to me in my high school years at NFA were fond and humorous memories in Sciences (2 classes) College Prep/UCONN and my brother and I took fencing with him also.
Later when I moved to Pawcatuck/Stonington it 1985 it became Dan when we would meet up around town at different events. Just a real gentleman and a good friend to talk with.
Rest assured Dan will be taken into Heaven and he will be looking down over all of us.
Elisa Zapp (Morse)
October 19, 2020
Jean and family - Hearts will be heavy with the loss of such a giving man. Hold his memory near and try to emmulate one of his traits to honor him.
Laurie Buck
October 19, 2020
Today I am deeply saddened by the departure of a man I truly respected. Fly high to the angels Mr.Blackstone I will truly never forget you.
Laurie Buck
Fred Andrews
October 18, 2020
Although it has been awhile since I have seen him he will be missed.
Carol Burdick (formerly from N.S. I, live in Aurora, Co.
October 18, 2020
Dan was a great man .I would have coffee with him mornings before he went to teach at NFA we would talk for at least one hour. Dew Drop Inn in N.S. that's where everyone knows your name.God Bless his family and friends. Never forget the good people that we meet along the way.
Always a friend
Carol Burdick
Formerly from N.S.
Michael Fay Sr
October 18, 2020
Your life lives on in the family you leave behind. I see a lot of you in David and the stories he could tell were obviously influenced in style by you. R.I.P.
Adam Brown
October 18, 2020
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Teresa Norris
October 18, 2020
I was saddened to learn of Dan's passing. I got to know him through our CAPA (CT Authors and Publishers Association) meetings where he demonstrated his writing skills, always with a gentle spirit. His smile will stay with me, especially as he'd impishly "crash" Friday morning writing sessions at the Senior Center/PNC to bring us a bag of candy to pass around. We got to call him "The Candy Man." Reading his obit, I see even more how he embodied "a life well-lived." My condolences to his wife and entire family.
Judi Deglin
October 18, 2020
I did not have him as a teacher at NFA, but rather got to know him as a fellow docent at The Slater Memorial Museum. There was never a moment that he was not teaching or sharing. He was also a role model for aging energetically and graciously. His many kindnesses, boundless curiosity and continued thirst for knowledge will not be forgotten.
Stan Novakowski
October 18, 2020
Dan was a colleague teacher with me at NFA and a dear friend RIP Dan
Fred Souza
October 18, 2020
Dearest Barbara and family, My condolences on your loss. Dan was an amazing man and an integral part of our Stonington community and of the greater educational community of southern Connecticut. Treasure your memories to sustain you in the days, weeks and months ahead.
Cathy Meiklem (class of 67, NFA)
October 18, 2020
I remember Dan (Mr. Blackstone to me) well. He was by far my favorite teacher at NFA. He taught with such joy that he made those of us who didn't like science want to learn from him. I loved his quirky nature and kind heart. He touched so many people during his life and I am glad to say I am one of them. RIP Mr. Blackstone. Condolences to your friends and family.
Bonnie Doran
October 18, 2020
My heart breaks for your family. Sending gentle hugs to you in this difficult time. Know that the Lord is with you to ease your sadness.
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