Obituary of Ann Blinston

Ann was born in 1935 to Miles and Hannah Blinston and died in mid-August of 2020. She was raised in Hamburg, NY in the Episcopalian faith, attended public schools in Hamburg, and graduated from William Smith College in 1957. After working at Sears in New York City for a year, she earned several additional degrees: Buffalo State College (Intensive Teacher Training) and Syracuse University (Masters). Ann worked as an elementary Teacher in a suburb of Syracuse until her retirement. Ann was passionate about life; she had a great love for nature, animals, and the out-of-doors. She was particularly fond of rabbits, especially one named "Jay Wellington Bunny." She was an efficient, enthusiastic, and diligent gardener and was always willing to help others with their gardens, even up until her death. She enjoyed snow skiing, swimming, and running her motor boat on Oneida Lake. She also visited Bettyann at her cottage on Keuka Lake, and they traveled, including Mexico and St. Thomas. Ann always seemed self-assured and competent. In college, Ann was known by the nickname of "Antiseptic Ann" because she liked everything to be clean and organized. Her frequent encouragement for friends was "You can do it!" She was eager to foster tiny baby mice for Bettyann and did a great job. Ann was an enthusiastic and energetic individual who would light up the room when she arrived; her energy seemed both contagious and boundless. Shortly before her death, she drove alone to Syracuse, had lunch with a friend, did some business, and drove back to Hamburg, all in one day! She appreciated so much of life and shared her support for local craft people. Although she lived in Syracuse for many years, she maintained the family home in Hamburg and was planning to move permanently to the latter. Ann was a very supportive and caring friend, particularly when the Covid 19 epidemic closed down the state. During these last months, she and Bettyann talked often by phone in the evening, encouraging each other and sharing ideas on how to survive during this difficult time. She was a kind, gentle, and loving person, and her loss has caused great sadness. ......The life of Ann Blinston as narrated by Bettyann Kinyoun. Family and friends called at the DONALD M. DEMMERLEY FUNERAL HOME, 21 Pierce Avenue, Hamburg on Saturday, November 14 from 12-1 PM. A graveside service was held at Hillcrest Cemetery, 5223 Abbott Road, Hamburg at 1:30 PM.