John B. Blackburn passed away on August 10th in his home at age 71, his loving family by his side.
In 1954, John was adopted at age 4 months by his loving parents, Betty and Ildon Blackburn of Colts Neck, NJ. He joined his sister, Rachel, at the family farm. He attended Colts Neck schools and for high school, John went to Williston Academy in Massachusetts. He graduated from Monmouth College with a BA in German languages, and Rutgers University with a Masters in German language and literature. John spoke 6 languages fluently, including German, French, Italian, Spanish, Russian and Vietnamese. He taught ESL for both Brookdale Community College and Rutgers University. He traveled the world with his wife using his language gifts.
He married his one and only, Cathy Blackburn (nee Blatz) in 1981 and spent 43 years getting to know her. They lived in Eatontown and Freehold, and in 2002 back to the family farm in Colts Neck. They grew blueberries and Christmas trees with their adopted son, Ruben Campos from Belize.
John was a member of Tower Hill Presbyterian Church for 70 years. He was baptized, confirmed and married there. His faith was unwavering.
John will be missed, especially at diners – he was a generous tipper. He loved hats, cats and dogs. He always had a book in hand.
He was predeceased by his parents, Elizabeth and Ildon Blackburn. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Cathy Blackburn. His sister, Rachel Robbins and her daughters Jessica (Jon) and Holly (Q) and their sons, Lucas and Noah. He will be missed by Ruben Campos, his very special adopted son, and family. All Blatz siblings, Anne, (Eric), Teresa, (Tom), Joe and Paul. Nieces and nephews, Brent, James (Meghan), Phil, Betsy and Theo and their families.
A Memorial Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 14th from 5-8 pm at Thompson Memorial Home, 310 Broad St, Red Bank, NJ 07701. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, August 15th at 11 am at Tower Hill Presbyterian Church, 255 Harding Road, Red Bank NJ 07701. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Dominican Republic mission at Tower Hill Presbyterian Church, Red Bank, NJ would be appreciated.
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