John Blackburn

John F. Blackburn of Horton, NY, a lifelong area resident, died Wednesday, January 14, 2015 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was 58.

The son of Gertrude N. Owen Blackburn and the late Andrew R. Blackburn, he was born February 12, 1956 in Monticello, NY.

In his teenage years, John spent time working together with his Dad at Blackburn's Motorcycle Shop in Rock Hill, NY. He and his brother raced dirt bikes. Later, he worked for Ayres Honda in Middletown, NY. John had a passion for motor cycles and he spent many Sundays with his nephews and cousins as their mechanic and mentor. He attended the Annual Unadilla Sports Center Moto Cross Races and watched current Moto Cross Races on TV. He enjoyed keeping up with the sport in his leisure time by reading Racer X, Moto Cross and dirt bike magazines. John was very artistic and painted on helmets and bikes. For the past 16 years, John felt fortunate using his artistic ability working at Walmart in the bakery where he decorated and air brushed cakes. John found his Faith at the Church of the Nazarene in Rock Hill. He was reminded of that faith by his love of eagles and eagle sightings. His favorite Bible verse was Isaiah 40:31. He found that living in Horton Brook (God's Country) was very rewarding, especially the times he sat in the evening on the front porch swing with his wife.

Survivors include his wife, Julie Kaufman Blackburn, at home; his mother, Gertrude Owen Blackburn of Rock Hill, NY; one brother, Richard Blackburn of Monticello, NY; one sister, Lois Cooper and her husband Lowell of Rock Hill, NY; and several nieces and nephews.

Memorial Services will be Saturday, January 17, 2015 at 2 PM in the Church of the Nazarene 210 Katrina Falls Road, Rock Hill, NY. The Rev. Roy Shaffer will officiate.

Burial will be in the Gregorytown Cemetery, Gregorytown, NY in the spring.

Memorial contributions in his name may be made to the Church of the Nazarene 210 Katrina Falls Rd., Rock Hill, NY 12775 or to Catskill Area Hospice 542 Main St., Oneonta, NY 13820.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Harris Funeral Home, Railroad Ave. Roscoe, NY. 607-498-4929 or 845-439-5200 www.Harris-FH.com