John William Blackburn, 87, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2017. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 64 years: Norma Blackburn, who passed in July of 2016.

Born on March 29, 1930, to Florence and Ulmont Blackburn, he was one of nine children. He is preceded in death by all of his brothers and sisters.

John was a proud United States Marine. His rank was Sergeant, and he served in the Marines and is a Korean War Veteran. he also served as a Boy Scout leader of troop 478 for 26 years.

John was a retired electrician. His interests were spending time with his family, football, the Baltimore Orioles and in the past few years he became a Washington Capitals fan. He enjoyed the outdoors, warm weather, his vegetable and flower gardens. He enjoyed watching cowboy movies, gameshows, and he loved music. John played the guitar, harmonica and piano. He also enjoyed visiting train gardens and had a train garden of his own. He was a red cross blood donor and he volunteered and delivered Meals on Wheels.

John is survived by his daughter Gay and son John; his granddaughters Melody and Holly; his great granddaughter Harmony and many other grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Family requests friends visit at the Gregory J. Gonce Funeral Home, PA, 169 Riviera Drive Pasadena 21122 on Wednesday April 5 from 10 AM until 12:30 PM at which time his funeral service will begin, with Rev. John Taylor officiating. His burial will follow in Meadowridge Memorial Park.

Those who wish may contribute to Faith United Methodist Church at 905 Duvall Highway, Pasadena 21122.