Harold Lee Blackburn

Home is the Sailor, home from the sea. Harold Lee Blackburn embarked on his final voyage on September 26, 2026 at the age of 73.

He was born in 1952 in Columbus, OH, a son of the late Aaron Blackburn and Elva Lee.

Harold served his country in the United States Air Force for four years, where he received his Precision Measurement Equipment Laboratory Specialist Certification. His love of electrical engineering led to a successful career at General Motors, where he completed an apprenticeship in Machine Repair. He received a degree in Electronic Engineering Technology from Columbus State Community College in 1995. Harold worked as an Electrician, and a Maintenance Engineering Technician, before retiring from Rich Products in 2016.

Aside from being a lifelong learner, and a Jack of All Trades, Harold loved all things outdoors. He enjoyed many a camping trip, fishing trip and boating adventure with his family and friends. He was at peace on his sailboat. Harold was also a talented musician. He played in a band when he was young and played guitar for his family through the years.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Larry Eugene Blackburn and his sister Betty Carol Stratton of Kentucky.

Harold is survived by his soulmate and loving wife of 54 years, Darlene, as well as his three dedicated daughters, Brandi (Rob) Christensen; Scheri (Tim) Starkey; and Kelli (Jimmy) Carey. He was the most amazing Papaw to Mason (Amanda), Dianne, Camron, Zachary, Jackson and Emalee. The newest light of his life is his great-granddaughter, Neva. Many nieces and nephews also adored their Uncle Harold, and Kenny Abraham was lucky to call him Best Friend.

A memorial service and celebration of Harold's exceptional life will be held on SUNDAY, October 4, 2026, from 1:00 to 3:00PM, with a short service to follow at the TIDD FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 5265 Norwich St. Hilliard, OH 43026. We invite all who knew and loved Harold to join us in honoring his memory.

"May the wind always be at your back"