Joseph E. Blasius, Sr.

Hamden-Joseph E. Blasius, Sr., 83, of 49 Howard Dr. passed away surrounded by his devoted family after an extended illness on December 28, 2004. Joseph was born June 27, 1921 to Joseph and Amanda Kinney Blasius. He was raised in New Haven where he met his childhood sweetheart and wife of 56 years, Geraldine Hickey Blasius. Joseph spent his early years in the US Navy during WW II. Joseph was a tool and die maker by trade, owning and operating several businesses in the field throughout his career. He retired from Durol Company in 1986. Joseph is attributed with the development of numerous metal working processes and products. Innovation was the key to Joseph, he possessed an innate ability to make, fix, or do anything. Anyone who knew him appreciated this as his strongest trait. Joseph also possessed a generous and loving heart which meant he was always willing to lend his talent to anyone in need. He will truly be missed by all those whose lives he touched. Joseph was the proud father of six children: Joan Longley of Hamden, Jeraldine Wortman of Southbury, Joseph Blasius of Ferrisburg, VT, John Blasius of Putnam, Jean Nizen of Westbrook and Janet Blasius of Beverly Hills, CA. Joseph is also survived by his 15 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. Joseph leaves behind 2 brothers: Raymond Blasius of Brooksville, FL and William Blasius of Stauton, VA and 3 sisters: Elizabeth Thompson of Port Charles, FL, Bertha Clouse of Clearwater, FL, and Marguerite Schneider of Palm Harbor, FL. His brother George Blasius predeceased him along with Virginia Shea, longtime friend. Funeral service Friday, December 31 at 10 AM at BEECHER & BENNETT, 2300 Whitney Ave., Hamden. Friends may call one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in St. Lawrence Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to CT Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd., Branford, CT 06405.