Joseph M. Blackburn

Joseph(Joe) M. Blackburn was born April 10th, 1958 in Queens, New York to Joseph A. Blackburn and Rita Doty-Blackburn. In his early life, Joe was known as the life of the party. A friendly and welcoming face, always looking to get together to have some fun. However, following a horrible car accident, Joseph decided he had taken his last drink on March 27th 1979 and became a proud member of Alcoholics-Anonymous. In the following years, Joseph would dedicate his life to helping others find the same path. He was known to many to be a kind, caring, and generous man. Joe would help to guide dozens of people down a similar path of sobriety. Always there, ready to listen, and offer advice to those who wished to have it. Moreover, he sought to create a sense of community with those struggling around him. He wanted to show people how much fun could be had while still being sober. Thus, Joseph spent much of his time hosting community events where people from all walks of life could come have a good clean time. He organized events such as regular picnics and an annual hayride to help create a community for those struggling with sobriety. Joseph dedicated his life to bringing people together.

Additionally, Joseph was known for his generosity. He was blessed to become a proud HVAC technician for General Motors following him gaining his sobriety. For more than 40 years, Joe worked for GM and constantly paid this blessing forward. He was always looking to help those in need. Whether it was to help buy clothes, or install a new heater, Joe would come to help. He believed firmly in helping others; being generous with his time, money, and knowledge. He was driven to pay forward the generosity and kindness of those who helped guide him on his path of sobriety.

Joseph is survived by his two kids Joshua M. Blackburn and Jason M. Blackburn. He was a proud and loving father, who did his best to guide his children down a bright path. Joseph leaves behind a legacy that stretches far and wide. His impact on people’s lives will carry on far beyond his passing. He has touched dozens of lives, and will always be remembered by those who loved him.

A memorial visitation for Joseph will be held Wednesday, January 11, 2023 from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM at A.H. Peters Funeral Home, 32000 Schoenherr Rd, in Warren, Michigan, with prayers and a sharing of memories at 6pm.