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Jeffrey Blatnick Obituary

Blatnick, Jeffrey BALLSTON LAKE Jeffrey Blatnick, 55, motivational speaker, and sports commentator passed away peacefully October 24, 2012. Born in Niskayuna on July 26, 1957, he is the beloved father and husband of his wife, Lori; his children , Ian and Niki; his mother, Angela (Geotes) Blatnick of Niskayuna and the late Carl Blatnick; his brother, Andrew, and several nieces and nephews. Jeffrey was also predeceased by his brother, David. He was a class of '75 graduate of Niskayuna High School and received his bache-lor's degree in physical education from Springfield College in Spring-field, Mass. in 1979. Jeff was recognized by all of America and beyond by his touching "One Happy Dude" quote when he won the Gold Medal in Greco Roman Wrestling at the 1984 Olympics. He never let his celebrity status overshadow his humility and his love of helping others with his experiences in life. Jeffrey had a strong will to live life the best he could. Jeff worked as an analyst for NBC Sports and other venues over the years that followed. He was proud of his motivational speeches made to literally thousands of aspiring athletes that someday conquer the mats themselves. Jeff was an assistant varsity wrestling coach for BH-BL High School and a Journeyman Wrestling Club Coach. See related stories on ESPN, NBC 13. Jeffrey and Lori Nowak Blatnick united in marriage on July 8, 1989 in Massachusetts. The couple settled in Ballston Lake and began raising their children, Ian and Niki. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, October 29, at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Grace Church. 73 Midline Road (Route 146 A) Ballston Lake. Calling hours will be from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, October 28, at the Glenville Funeral Home, 9 Glenridge Road, Glenville. Interment will be inMost Holy Redeemer Cemetery in Niskayuna. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Jeffrey C. Blatnick to Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Wrestling Scholarship Fund. Mail contributions to BH-BL Booster Club at 5 Beverly Court, Glenville, NY 12302. Online condolences may be send to the family at www.glenvillefuneralhome.com

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Published by Albany Times Union from Oct. 26 to Oct. 27, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Jeffrey Blatnick

Not sure what to say?





RMA

February 16, 2018

It's been a long time since 1975...I am very saddened by the late news of Jeff's passing. He was a true Warrior.

Alan Luciano

May 3, 2013

I loved Jeff, and I miss him terribly and think about him everyday. I was so proud to have him as my dear friend. So many great times, laughs and fun. He was the best.
God rest his beautiful soul in paradise.

Kim Peters

February 15, 2013

I was two years ahead of Jeff at Springfield. I was a manager of the football team and also worked on the newspaper, "The Student". He made my A-B-C List of Springfield Immortals...
B is for Blatnick
of football and mat fame
It matters not the sport
Jeff's great just the same.

He was amazing and will be missed. His life, though far too short, made a difference. He left a mark and it doesn't get any better than that.

Amar Smith

January 16, 2013

also you are with olympic filmmaker Bud Greenspan so he can do one from heaven about you RIP Jeff

Amar Smith

January 16, 2013

fron cantor fitzgerald Issas Rivera WCBS TV William Steckman WNBC TV Donald DiFranco WABC TV World Trade Center no 2 South Tower Gordon M Aamoth JR Adam P Arias Wells Wemy Crowther Bradley James Fetchet Joan Donna Griffith Sean Paul Rooney Jose Juan Marrero David Harlow Rice Gregory Milanowycz William J Wik Igor Zulkelman The Macho Man Randy Savage and the lovely Elizabeth John Wooden The Wizard of Westwood enjoy heaven Jeff and i will see you in heaven very soon love Amar Smith RIP

Tom Cornacchio

December 29, 2012

I lived directly across the hall from Jeff my freshman year at Springfield College. Jeff was a senior, stater on the football team and a NCAA National Champion. I was a nobody scared freshman. My first day in the dorm jeff ran up to me from behind, flipped me over, drove my face into the floor and pinned me. He said: "Hi my name is Jeff, welcome to the wrestlers dorm, if you ever need anything or if anyone ever bothers you, tell them your a friend of Jeff Blatnick!" Jeff was so good to me, He was the sweetest guy. I lived with him for a year and got to know him well. I was always so proud to have know him. My parents couldn't afford to pay for college so I left Springfield after that year but never forgot Jeff. He taught me never ever to quit so I kept going until I got my doctorate degree. I'll never forget Jeff. He really was a very, very special guy and showed me that it was OK to be tough and kind at the same time and boy was he tough! No one ever messed with him and he looked out for me my freshman year! I loved the guy, what can I say! God bless him for I know that he's in heaven.
Tom Cornacchio/Ipswich, MA

Amar Smith

December 22, 2012

Now your first holiday season in heaven you are with Minne Riperton Teena Marie Barry White Rick James James Brown the God Father of Soul Michael Jackson Luther Vandeross Steve Sabol Jack Flemming Myron Cope Ernie Ladd Merlin Olsen Hank Stram Jack Buck Payne Stewart Pete Rozelle George Halas Art Modell Art Rooney SR Jack Kent Cooke Fran Crippen Lamar Hunt Leon Hess Hugh Culverhouse Joe Robbie Tom Landry Fred Rodgers Johnny Carson Ed Mcmanon Robert Marella Joey Marella Harry Carey Skip Carey Robert Urich John Ritter Don Knotts Norman Fell Stu Hart Helen Hart Owen Hart Adrian Adonis Dick Murdoch Classsy Freddie Blassie Captain Louis Albano Lord Alford Hayes Jim Varney Gerry Rafferty Gene Wood Mark Goodson Richard Dawson Johnny Olsen Rod Roddy Bill Rafferty Bert Convy Joe Frazier Wellington Mara Robert Tisch George Young who Drafted Phil Simms Lawrence Taylor Carl Banks Who hired Ray Perkins Bill Parcells Ray Handley Dan Reeves Jim Fassel Richard Quick Webb Eubank Herb Brooks Fred Silva SR Gene Barth Pat Haggerty Bob Frederic Cal Lepore Stan Javie Ray Douglas Al Conway Dave Hamiliton Donne Hampton Don Wedge Burl Toler Frank Sinkwicz Pat Harder Bob Rice Bob Banfield Miguel Alcnso Joesph N Feinstein Don Corninous Dick Clark Donna Summer Steve Jobs Al Davis Bill Walsh Curt Gowdy Jim MCKay Chris Schankel Bill Flemming Roone Arledge Chuck Howard Larry Kalm Frank Reynolds Peter Jennings Max Robinson John Facenda Vince Lombardi Walter Payton Mr Sweetness Reggie White the Minister of Defense Florence Griffin Joyner Sam Mills Sammy Baugh Harry Kalas Alex Karras Bill Cullan Charlie O Donnell Jack Clark Jack Elway Dan Marino SR Howard Cosell Don Meredith Mr Turn out the lights the party's over Issac Hayes Tim Russert Jules Bergman Victor K Copps Avery Brundage Lord Killan Juan Antionio Samaranch Murry Rose Victor Davis Vasily Alexeev Robert James Coage George Washington Abraham Lincoln Dr Martin Luther King JR Gerald R.Ford And His wife Betty Ronald Wilson Reagan Farrah Fawsett Grete Waltz Davey Boy Smith Leonard Tose Jack Kemp Edwin Starr Jenni Rivera 26 people killed at Sandy Hook Elem School in Conn 6 people killed in the 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center in New York City New York and 3000 people killed on 9-11-01 The Hero's of United Airlines Flight 93 Todd M Beamer Mark K Bingham Thomas E Burnett Jeremy L Glick 343 FDNY Mychal F Judge Ray Downey SR Pete Ganci JR William M.Feenan Terrance S. Hatton Peter Alexander Bieifeld Donald J Burns William F Burke JR Dennis Cross Dennis M.Carey SR Kenneth Joesph Marino David J.Fontana Thomas J.Foley Dennis Mojica Orio Joesph Palmer Ronald Bucca Gregg A Atlas Ricardo J.Quinn Timothy M. Stackpole Joseph Angelini SR. Joseph Angelini JR. 37 PAPD George G.Howard Clinton Davis SR. Kathy N.Mazza Paul Lasczynski Gregg J.Froehner Ururu G. Houston 23 NYPD John G.Coughlin Michael D.D Auria Claude Daniel Richards Moira Ann Smith First Responders Francis Albert De Martini Clyde Frazier JR. American Airlines Flight 11Captain John A.Ogonowski Christopher D.Mello Linda M George Edmund Glazer Daniel M.Lewin Daniel John Lee United Airlines Flight 175 Captain Victor J. Saracini Amy R King and her boyfriend Michael C.Tarrou Amy Nicole Jarret Alicia Nicole Titus Kathryn L.Laborie Marianne Macfarlane Lynn Catherine Goodchils Shawn M.Nassaney Lisa Anne Frost of Rancho Santa Margerita California Ana Gloria Pocasangre Debarrera American Airlines Flight 77 Captain Charles F.Burlingame III Barbara K.Olsen United Airlines Flight 93 Captain Jason M. Dahi Leroy W.Homer Cee Cee Lyles Christine Ann Snyder Lauren Catuzzi Grandcolas Nicole Carol Miller Pentagon Johnnie Doctor JR Robert A.Schiegel World Trade Center Tower No 1 North Tower Andrew Anthony Abate Vincent Paul Abate Lee Alan Adler Donald LAroy Adams Shannon Lewis Adams Joanne Marie Ahladiotis Gary Eugene Bird of Tempe Arizona Patricia Malia Colonder Patricia Ann Cimaroli Masssari Lisa Erin Eagan Samantha Eagan
James M.Gartenberg Gary Frederick Lutnick Steven Harris Russin 658 employees

Amar Smith

December 21, 2012

Also you are also with Fred Rogers Mr its a beautiful day in the neighborhood Jack Flemming Myron Cope

Michael Zovistoski

November 28, 2012

Coach Blatnick was a great teacher and coach. He watched my brothers and I grow up and develop into fine wrestlers and people and we thank him for it. Our best wished go out to his family.

-Zovistoski Brothers (Schenectady, New York)

jim Breult

November 13, 2012

Hi Lori this is Jim Breault I am very sorry for your loss best wishes to you and your family Jeff will be very missed

Beth

November 3, 2012

I did not know Jeff personally, I did however, get the pleasure of hearing him speak at my childrens school a couple of years ago. He was a wonderful speaker, he really got the kids involved & I think the kids (most of whom had no idea who he was) really enjoyed hearing him. My deepesy sympathies go out to his family & friends. May he rest in peace.

Karen levey

November 1, 2012

We all loved you Jeff. Your family will be in my prayers. You gave so much! Will miss you. I know you are in the Lord's hands.

Paul Lyman

October 31, 2012

Thank You Jeff for helping out my son with his wrestling as well as the thousands of others you volunteered your time for. You were a very special person and had a very special gift you gave to everyone. You ll be sorely missed forever. May god bless and give strength and courage to the Blatnick family and friends. Rest in peace champ.. Paul Lyman Selkirk NY

Rick Warner

October 31, 2012

Springfield College 1979 classmate, friend, and hero. You'll be sadly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Marie Twomey

October 31, 2012

I went to Springfield College with Jeff back in the day. He was actually in my "Self Defense" class, and once he had to maneuver me to the floor. He did it with two fingers and extremely gently. He was such a nice guy, a gentle giant. His loss is a terrible one, but he will be remembered by so many. My sincere condolences.

Charlene Breitenstein

October 30, 2012

Lori, Niki and Ian,
As a husband and father I know he will be greatly missed. He will also be missed by many people in the community. He gave so much encouragement to our young athletes to "pursue their dreams." Love and prayers, Grandma B.

October 29, 2012

Sincere condolences to family and loved ones. May the God of all comfort be with you.

October 29, 2012

Although we didn't know Jeff personally, he made us feel like we did. Our deepest sympathies to the family he left behind. You now have an angel watching over you.

Rick Jones

October 29, 2012

I knew Jeff during his time at North Dakota State around 1980. We played gym rat basketball together 2-3 times a week for at least a year. You can only imagine how astonished I was when I saw my basketball buddy wrestling on ABC's "USA vs The World!" Despite his strength and talent, above all Jeff was humble and decent. I was so happy for his success and am greatly saddened by his passing. Heartfelt condolences to his family and many friends.

Msgr. John McLaughlin

October 29, 2012

I was saddened to hear of the loss of Jeff. I got to know him when he lived in Woburn. He was truly a good and humble man. I have offered 3 Masses for his soul and for your family.
Eternal Rest Jeff.
Msgr. John McLaughlin/B.U.

Jean Foster

October 29, 2012

Lori, Niki and Ian;
Our hearts break for you, our thoughts are with you, our prayers are offered up for you. Nothing we can say will ever be enough but know that you are thought of with love and sympathy.
The Fosters (Jean, Colin and family)

deb

October 28, 2012

Dear,firend sorry on your lost. He will be missed. He's in gods hands. Now.

Denise Day

October 28, 2012

Shortly after his Olympic win,I ran into Jeff at a car wash. I told him that I worked with Deaf kids,and asked for an autographed picture,which he sent to me a few days later.
I seem to remember him coming to speak to them as well.
For so many people to send condolences and memories speaks volumes as to the kind of person he was.
Thank you to the family for sharing him,and deepest sympathies to you as well.

Ed Jenks

October 28, 2012

As we continually hear about the use of steroids and HGH in today's athletes, Jeff was truly not only an American icon in the sport of wrestling but a real inspiration to the youth of today. His courageous battles with cancer as well an inspiration to us all. He will truly be missed. May God's love be of comfort to you at this time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Craig Bradt

October 28, 2012

I will always have fond memories of growing up with Jeff in the old neighborhood and playing thebackyard football games it was amazing to see how many lives he touched and the inspiration he gave to so many people, I am proud to say I knew him and miss him dearly

Brian & Carolyn Fall

October 27, 2012

To the Blatnick Family: We are very sorry about Jeffs passing and our love and prayers are with you. Jeff, may God Bless and welcome you home. You will be very much missed hear and people like you are very rare to come by. You will always be a Gold Medalist in our hearts!! Now we have one happy dude with angels wings!!
'

Jade Tupper-Barracoso

October 27, 2012

The passing of your husband and father, was mentioned in our Tacoma WA. newspaper. I remember how my Dad thought so highly of Jeff and his courage and talent. I know Dad always enjoyed the charity golf tournaments! I never met Jeff, but wanted to convey condolences on behalf of the Tupper family.

Kevin Rockefeller

October 27, 2012

You were a true inspiration to all the lives that you touched. gone but never forgotten. RIP Jeff

Coach Rock

Pat Setford

October 27, 2012

To the Blatnick family, I met Jeff back in the late 1980's and what I came away with was a man of true grace and kindness. That is what he was in life. He was a good soul always thinking of the other person. Thank you for sharing Jeff with us all. I pray you find peace in knowing what a wonderful man he was. my condolences and prayers for all of you at this very hard time.

Frank Stefanelli

October 27, 2012

Lori and Family,

So very sorry for the loss of Jeff. I didn't know him because of wrestling, but he always had a kind word and a smile for everyone I saw him with. His happiness ,I'm sure, was multiplied after his marrying and raising a family. May you all find peace and happiness in knowing how many people he touched in such a very positive way. My prayers and thoughts are with you.

Farbs

October 27, 2012

I was shocked and saddened when I heard the news on espn radio. I'm a graduate NHS class of '84. I met Jeff at Mike's diner years ago, he would visit our mutual friend Pete who worked the griddle. We engaged in some spirited football talk. I would occassionally run into Jeff and he was always warm and friendly and willing to spend some time just chatting. What a humble gentlemen I remarked. He will be sorely missed by all. He touched some many in a positive way. R.I.P

Patricia Finnegan

October 27, 2012

To the Blatnick family: I am so sorry for your loss. I remember watching Jeff's gold-medal winning match on TV in 1984. When he broke into tears after the match and told the interviewer: "I'm a happy dude..!!", I became teary-eyed too. What a great champion.

Rocco Ricchiuti

October 26, 2012

Lori and children: My thoughts and prayers are with you all...RIP Jeff, you are and always will be, one of the all around BEST dudes ever! What great memories I have of you hanging with the boys...Golfing, Racket Ball, The Cranberry Bog, Networking/Socializing, and watching Giants Football!!! Forever Friends...Rocco

Carolyn

October 26, 2012

I recognized Jeff's name immediately when I glanced at the obituaries today. It was remarkable to follow him during the Olympics and many in the capital district were cheering for him.

So sorry that your husband and Dad died so young. Remember the good times and cherish his wonderful memories. Take care of yourselves.

From a sports lover.

Carol Dunton Rieken

October 26, 2012

To Jeff's family - my deepest sympathy. I graduated with Jeff in 75 from Niskayuna and was at most of his high school wrestling matches. I never crossed paths with him again but remember his kindness and sense of humor from all those years ago. I wish I had known him since that time, he sounds like a wonderful man. My heart hurts for you all.

Sharon and Jim Bennett

October 26, 2012

To the Family of Jeff Blatnick, you raised a beautiful son and shared him with the World. Thank You. Jeff did a Motivational Speech at Shaker H.S. in Latham years ago. My daughter helped out with a demonstration on stage....something she'll never forget. He won His final Gold Medal ..... in Heaven. RIP

Todd Wilday

October 26, 2012

I can't remember if I first met Jeff before or after he won his gold medal. I started wrestling for ATWA when I was 9 years old and Jeff was always there.Over the years I would see him at some wrestling event and he always took the time to say hello. The wrestling world has lost an icon and and an ambassador for our great sport. Even more so, the world has lost a great man. Our thoughts and prayers go to the Blatnick family.

Suzanne DeVito

October 26, 2012

To the Blatnick Family,our Prayers are with you during this most difficult time.We are so sorry for the loss of a great man.The DeVito family-Suzanne John,Dom,Adriana and Maria

Nicole

October 26, 2012

A true American hero!

Mike, Deb & Sam Bartlett

October 26, 2012

The highest compliment you can pay a man is to say he was a good man.
Jeff was a good man.

Paul Hill

October 26, 2012

Rest in peace

ellen zee

October 26, 2012

Jeff was such a great guy and fun guest on our Show...God BLess This Dear man...

Mary Parker

October 26, 2012

To all the Blatnick Family: My sincere condolences on the passing of Jeff. I didn't know him personally, but was very happy for him when he won the gold medal. All that I ever heard of him were all good things and I'm sure he is in Heaven with God for all his goodness and caring ways. God bless you all with the courage and strength you need at this most difficult time. My love and prayers for you all.

Sue Snyder

October 26, 2012

Lori, Ian and Niki: We send our deepest sympathy on the loss of Jeff. We'll never forget the kindness he showed by bringing little trinkets to Sarah from his Olympic travels, they meant the world to her. He will be greatly missed. Love, Sue & Charlie Snyder

October 26, 2012

A memory I will never forget, we were all rooting for him here in the Capital Region. God Bless the family, he was a great man taken from us too soon.

Kim

October 26, 2012

My thoughts and prayers go out to all the family and friends of Jeff. He was a wonderful person who never knew a limit on giving. He will be missed by all who knew him. May God hold you in his arms.

Rachel Amell

October 26, 2012

I am so sorry to hear about jeff passing,i met Jeff couple of times when he came through my line in Clifton Park Price Chopper a few times, it was a great honor, he was amaze how tall i am, i told him i was an athelete like him, he was very nice person and very pleasant.So sorry of your great loss,may you find comfort in god and remember him in your heart.

John Thornton

October 26, 2012

I was a freshmen at SC, when Jeff was a Sr. on the team, amzing how tough and determined on the mat, yet off a soft spoken guy. You would never know how kind of heart he had if you never say him off the mat like those at SC saw him. He Later come down to Central Jersey and work my wrestling camp for a day and drivew back to NY, think nothing of it, for the sport and his freind. Those who knew Jeff were very blessed to know him and by soft nature most superstars today, do not have. My condolences to his family and the wrestling family (Springfeild College).

October 26, 2012

To The Blatnick Family,

With Deepest Sympathy to you in the loss of Jeff. He was an inspiration to the community, the state and the world. He will be missed, but, his legacy will always remain through those he touched.

Sincerely,
The Lane Family

Eric , Cory and Rob merchant

October 26, 2012

we are sorry for your loss jeff was a great man and coach. He will be missed

Philip Brown

October 26, 2012

Your work is done. You have been awesome my friend. God Bless you and rest in Pease.

Deborah & Michael Connelly

October 26, 2012

So sorry for your tragic loss.

October 26, 2012

R.I.P.

Janet (Campbell) Gurnick

October 26, 2012

I am sorry for your loss. I knew Jeff at Niskayuna High School where we graduated in the same class. I still look at our old "Crossroads '75" yearbook from time to time and think about our classmates. Jeff made us all proud when he won gold at the 1984 Olympics. We are saddened to hear of his unexpected death.

Jim Finn

October 26, 2012

I was deeply moved when Jeff won his gold medal. While i didn't know him personally, I got to know his humorous side when he was a frequent guest on Mason & Sheehans morning radio show. Thanks, Jeff, for brightening those days. You're the best!

Kris Turon

October 26, 2012

A local hero - he will be remembered fondly.

Kaplan Family

October 26, 2012

We are so sorry for your loss. Jeff was an inspiration not only for our area, but for the world. He will be missed.

October 26, 2012

TO THE FAMILY OF JEFF BLATNICK,MY SINCERE CONDOLENCES.MAY YOU EVER BE BLESSED BY THE ALMIGHTY ABOVE.HE HAS SAID"HAPPY ARE THOSE CONSCIOUS OF THEIR SPIRITUAL NEED,SINCE THE KINGDOM OF THE HEAVENS BELONGS TO THEM."(matt.5:3).....gbo,nc

Deb Henry, Ethan,CJ and Seth Wilson

October 26, 2012

We are deeply saddened by the loss of such a great man and mentor. Jeff, you will be greatly missed. God Bless you and your family during this difficult time.

kelly Sweeney

October 26, 2012

On behalf of the family of Eoghan Sweeney, we would like to send our deepsest sympathy, love and prayers. Eoghan was blessed to have the honor and privilege to be coached by Jeff with the Journeymen program.We can deffinatley say we are all better people for having Jeff in our lives.
Kelly, John and Eoghan Sweeney

Daniel Wheeler

October 26, 2012

Lori and family we are so sorry for your loss and you and the kids are in our prayers. God bless you our condolences
Danny,Brenda,Brianna,Jocelyn,Shauna,Dan Jr.

October 26, 2012

Angel: Another of our Boys gone. Such a loss.
Chuck and Carolyn Boehm, Sun City Center, Florida.

Tanya Hicks and son, Spencer Wieland

October 26, 2012

Our area and the world have lost a great man. I will always remember his words of inspiration to my son and I. Lori, Ian & Niki, may God watch over you at this difficult time. Jeff is an awesome angel!

Tangora

October 26, 2012

Blatnick Family,
You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Jeff was a wonderful man whom gave hope to all who hit the mats.The wrestling community will never be the same. My son idolized him for too many reasons to list and was so very proud to have him in his corner in Fargo. Jeff will be missed but never forgotten. Rest In Peace "Happy Dude"
The Tangora Family

October 26, 2012

Our thoughts and prayers go out to you Lori, Ian and Nikki.
The Garrison Family

Joseph DiDonna

October 26, 2012

So sorry for the loss of such a great man. May God Bless Jeff. Rest in Peace. Amen

Jeff's a great motivator to follow healthy living after I suffered two heart attacks.

Al Bruhn

October 26, 2012

Barberis Family

October 26, 2012

Blatnick Family

Our thoughts and prayers go out to you. Our son is a high school wrestler and also wrestles at Journeymen. Jeff was a wonderful inspiration to all.

John Tabolt

October 26, 2012

My condolences to your family. I wrestled Jeff in the finals of the NYS Wrestling Championships in 1975. I have seen Jeff and talked to him on a few occassions since then and he always remebered me and had nice things to say. Recently I atteded the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Inductions, where Jeff was the MC - he did a great job and will be missed by all.

October 26, 2012

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Blatnick family at this difficult time. Jeff's contribution to this community has been great, and he will be truly missed by so many.
The LaPierre family.

October 26, 2012

Jeff was an inspiration for all

Lee Hatfield Jr

October 26, 2012

My Condolences, God Comfort and Bless all who knew Mr Blatnick.

Jeff was an inspiration to Many people and shall be missed by all who knew him.

Francis R Taormina

October 26, 2012

Saddened by his loss. He will always stand out as a great example of the value of personal effort in discovering your personal talents and as a decent human being.

chris cazzato

October 26, 2012

to lori and kidsim so sorry for your loss,i didnt know him personally,but being brought up in colonie he wasa hero to many of us he had courage.thank u jeff u shall be missed.may god be with u in these tough times

Sherwood Fendryk

October 25, 2012

A great man, you will be missed !

Karen and Jim Webster

October 25, 2012

you inspired Sherwood and our family - you were the finest example of a being, we were so proud to have known you. May your greatness put it's arms around your family and give them comfort.

Thomas Sconzo

October 25, 2012

Jeff, you are in a much better place & you left the world a much better place. I am one of the many cancer survivors that you gave the strength & inspiration to battle on.

Dave Noyes

October 25, 2012

I was a year ahead of Jeff at Springfield. As most SC students would attest...we always acknowledged one another in passing walking to classes, or various practices. I admired Jeff's ability and tenacity as a wrestler....and later in 1984 for his courage, determination and heart-felt thanks for all the support he had during his amazing Battles", both on and off the mat. May you rest in peace Jeff. My comdolences go out to the Blatnick family and friends.

October 25, 2012

I was a classmate of Jeff's at Springfield College for only 1 year our Freshman year. I remember him as being nice guy and I enjoyed following is remarkable career. I am so sorry for your loss. Mitch Burke,Uxbridge, MA.

Barb Iwan

October 25, 2012

To All of Jeff's Family;
I was so sorry to hear about Jeff's passing. I didn't know him well, but the few times I had occasion to speak with him, he was very nice. I do know he has done a lost for the kids here in BH-BL. Jeff will be sorely missed by all.
My Condolences--Barb Iwan

October 25, 2012

jeff,you will surely be missed !i hope you've given your strength to your wonderful family as they need it more than ever now .i will surely miss you ,and will be there for your family .may god be with you my friend .i miss you . ken m (krm)

Roberta Canavan

October 25, 2012

I was so deeply saddened to hear of Jeff's passing. His life, though entirely too short, should teach all of us, to be the best people we can be. Jeff and his family were neighbors of mine; wonderful people who unfortunately have had their share undeserved sorrows. I pray for peace for the entire Blatnick family, and know there is a bright spot in heaven at this time.
I am so sorry for your loss. He was such a gracious and humble man, even after becoming so well known.

Janice

October 25, 2012

Gone incredibly too soon. May God's peace be with the family. -1 Corinthians 15:26

Alan Luciano

October 25, 2012

I loved Jeff. He was my friend. Rest in Peace, brother, I will miss you, but you will always be with me.
Al

Debra Franklin

October 25, 2012

I didn't knoe Jeff for very long...but, he was an awesome person. Humble, funny....very likeable. May God's peace be with his family....Jeff, you will be sorely missed.

Ralph Salem

October 25, 2012

Deepest sympathy.Incredible man even before he won the gold!! I was 1 year behind Jeff in wrestling in school and college.

October 25, 2012

Jeff Blatnick was an early voice for the Ultimate Fighting Championship and lent credibility to the fledgling organization when it needed it dearly. Jeff broke the ice on describing what was being seen in the octagon.

May the Creator Walk with his family and friends in their time of loss. May they also know the tremendous impact that Jeff had on his sport and within humanity in general.

- Chaz Kader
Turtle Clan
Kanienkehaka
Akwesasne Territory
Kanienkeh

Cheryl A.

October 25, 2012

I knew Jeff growing up and he was a fine, decent kid. I was shocked to read about someone I know on these "famous" obits. Rest in Peace, Jeff.

Henryk Zaleski

October 25, 2012

Even the greatest must abide by the voice of our Lord God.

October 25, 2012

I hope this candle will light your way... R.I.P.

Tina Bondi Smith

Ethan Kilburn

October 25, 2012

What an honor it is to say I know Jeff Blatnick. As a Freshman Wrestler my most joyful memory was jumping and ranting out of control when you won your Olympic Gold. I felt like I won it right along with you. My son Spencer looks up to you as a hero of his as well and I am honored by you because of it once again. The hours you have spent helping and guiding our kids never went unnoticed or unrewarded. Thanks so much for all you do and will continue to do through everyone you have influenced, especially for coaching. My son and I will miss you always. We Love You Jeff

Steve Carr

October 25, 2012

Peace and good wishes to the Blatnick family. I Enjoyed my interactions with Jeff when he was a grad asst. coach for us at North Dakota State Univ. in 1983-84.

Harry Simpson

October 25, 2012

Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.

Holly

October 25, 2012

My heart goes out to the family and friends of Jeff. Whenever we lose a loved one in death it is too soon, but when it happens to someone so young it is particularly tragic. The Bible assures us that our Heavenly Father does understand what you are enduring and tells us that He "is near to those that are broken at heart and those who are crushed in spirit He saves." May your memories bring you a measure of comfort and peace at this time. Sincerely

Robert Viventi

October 25, 2012

Jeff,
More than gold medalist..the true definition of Heart. From your former HS teammate and the entire Viventi family, may all the people you touched, have a fond spot in their hearts of you forever

VR

October 25, 2012

My sincere sympathy and prayers are sent to his family for the loss of Jeff. I got to know him on a coaching level, and I had alot of admiration for his courage fighting cancer, and then doing the impossible, winning a Gold Medal!! He was a great role model for our young wrestlers!! He will be greatly missed, but, never forgotten!!

Alex Mattey

October 25, 2012

Thankyou for everything you have done for me, all that you have tought me, you were an amazing man and an even better coach thankyou.

October 25, 2012

I am profoundly devasted about the loss of my friend Jeff Blatnick. He was an inspiration to all who knew him. He was a great friend, husband and father. Your legacy will live on forever! Say hello in heavan for me. God bless your soul Champ! Maura K Manning and Family

Kennon Engelmann

October 25, 2012

Jeffrey, To our Fargo trips, all the laughs and other morning jiberish talk at tourments. You are always a fun guy to be with.

Engelmann

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