Blankenburg, Alan R

Alan R. Blankenburg passed peacefully in his home, surrounded by his family on December 28th after a brief illness. He was born in 1938 and raised in New Britain, CT. He lived most of his life in Berlin before moving to Newington with his wife in 2015. He was predeceased by his parents, Margaret (Slaney) and Emil Blankenburg, and his brothers Richard and Robert Blankenburg. He was also predeceased by the love of his life, Patricia “Pat” (Sarra), in February 2020, after nearly 59 years of marriage. Al graduated from New Britain High School in 1956. He continued his studies at The University of Hartford, Hartt School of Music receiving his bachelor's degree in music education in 1960. He went on to receive his master's degree from Columbia University. His career as a music teacher spanned over 3 decades with the majority spent at Hartford High School where he taught music theory and served as band director. He also taught private lessons on woodwind instruments and played weekend gigs with the band Three's a Crowd. He was a gifted musician, a patient teacher, and quick witted. He wrote personal welcome songs for each of his grandchildren. Rather than reading bedtime stories to his children, he made them up off the top of his head. The stories always included messages of empathy and human kindness. Fortunate to retire in his 50s, he was able to enjoy many years of power boating, traveling with his wife, cooking for family, and hosting annual family vacations which will continue under mom and dad's watchful eyes for years to come. He was a member of the Berlin Congregational Church since 1967 and served as a deacon alongside his wife in past years. He is survived by his daughters, Sharon and her husband Roy Dellinger and Kim Blankenburg. He also leaves behind the lights of his life, his grandchildren: Patrick Duffany, Jr (Claire Nakoski), Cassidy Duffany (Mike Rolleri), and Morgan Duffany. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and his sisters and brotherin-law, Marie Blankenburg, Lynn Blankenburg and Lynne Mccord (Ed Mccord). Paul Shaker Funeral Home in New Britain will handle the arrangements. Al's celebration of life will be held at the Berlin Congregational Church, 878 Worthington Ridge in Berlin on Saturday, January 8th at 11 am. Masks will be required. Due to the pandemic a repast will not be held. The family would like to acknowledge the services provided by Hartford Healthcare at Home Hospice, especially his nurses Joan and Sharon. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Berlin Congregational Church or a charity of the donor's choice.