John Keith Blassingame

STOW - John Blassingame, 68, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 16th from complications of Early-Onset Alzheimer's. Born in Euclid, Ohio to Helen and John O. Blassingame, he graduated from Euclid High School in 1969 and then attended Miami University where he met his future wife, Sharon (Jones) Blassingame. John has lived in the Hudson, Ohio area since 1987 with his family. He was a resident of Maplewood of Cuyahoga Falls at the time of his passing.

John spent the bulk of his career as the General Manager for the WGAR and WMJI radio stations in Cleveland. His work was truly his passion as it combined his genuine appreciation of music and his love of people. A born salesman, he was known for his positive attitude, humor and the ability to motivate those around him, challenging them to "do good work."

John is survived by his wife of 43 years, Sharon, his daughter Erin (Ben) Whaley, his son Ryan, his grandson Wyatt, in addition to his siblings and a close network of friends and extended family.

John, "JB", as he was known by many, took great pride in his long-standing friendships, many of which he maintained for over 60 years. His closest friends and family remained at his side throughout his battle with Alzheimer's and even in the end, saw glimpses of John's personality and spark.

A memorial reception will be held at the First Congregational Church of Hudson, 47 Aurora Street, Hudson, OH 44236 on Saturday, February 22nd from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made in John's name to Crossroads Hospice Charitable Foundation or the Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging.