Fly Creek, NY - FLY CREEK - Arthur C. Blessin, 89, died Saturday May 24, 2025, at his home. He was born on Nov. 18, 1935, in Locust Valley, Long Island to Arthur O. and Ellen (Ketchum) Blessin. When Art was in fifth grade the family relocated to Cooperstown where he entered the Cooperstown school system and graduated in the Class of 1953. After graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and after three years of service and honorable discharge, he returned home and became a NYSEG lineman. He would go on to hold the title "Chief Lineman".

In 1961 Art married Beverly Bridger. They would spend their first 3 years in Springfield where they welcomed their daughter, Lynn Michelle. The next 5 years were spent in Richfield where they welcomed their son Alan Jeffery and made many lifelong friends. In 1969 Art's job took him to Cooperstown and they purchased land on Goose Street in Fly Creek where they built their "forever" home. Art was a member of the Cooperstown Veteran's Club, Sportsmen's Club, American Legion and Cooperstown Native Sons.

After retirement Art and Bev were blessed with two grandchildren, Alexander and Katarina. During his retirement they continued the family's yearly vacation to Cape Cod, Massachusetts. They also toured Amish Country in Pennsylvania during the spring and vacationed in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina in the fall. Art and Bev also took his "dream of a lifetime" trip, visiting Alaska and cruising its waters.

Art is survived by his wife, Bev; daughter Lynn; grandchildren, Alex and Katie (Brandon); sisters, Celia Lamb, Betty (Gene) and Barbara. He was predeceased by his son, Alan; mother and father, and many brothers and sisters-in-law, including brother-in-law and special friend, Ted Lamb.

There will be a graveside service for family and friends at 1 p.m. Friday June 6 at Hartwick Seminary Cemetery, with military honors, where he will be laid to rest next to his son Alan. Following the service, a reception for family and friends will be held at Cooperstown Veteran's Club, 60 Main Street, Cooperstown.

For those who so desire, the family suggests donations in Art's name be made to "Helios Care", 297 River Street - Suite 1, Oneonta, NY 13820.

Arrangements are under the care of Tillapaugh Funeral Service, Cooperstown.