David O’Connell Blackford, 51, of Tariffville, died Monday, August 8, 2022. He was born November 25, 1970 in Hartford, the son of Nancy (McGann) Blackford of Simsbury and the late John Doner Blackford and had been a life long resident of Tariffville. He was an advanced Machinist. An avid amateur astronomer, David attended the Stellafane Astronomy gathering in Vermont every year along with many other astronomy gatherings in Connecticut. David often demonstrated astronomy at area schools and community organizations. Every Halloween David showed parents and children astronomical bodies through his favorite large Meade telescope. He loved fresh and salt water fishing and owned several small craft. David enjoyed sailing his Sunfish, especially on Cape Cod lakes and ponds. Spending time at his family home on Cape Cod also brought him great joy. He was a faithful daily visitor of his 85 year old mother at McLean Health Care in Simsbury, where he enjoyed making her laugh with his raunchy jokes. He also adored cats, having many feline friends over the years.

In addition to his beloved mother, David leaves his sister, Sharon J. “Sherry” Blackford of Barcelona, Spain.

There will be a memorial on October 9th from 3 - 6 pm at the Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room in Granby. Anyone who wants to celebrate David's life is very welcome to attend. The Vincent Funeral Home of Simsbury is caring for the arrangements. Please visit David's online memorial website to confirm the date and place of the memorial, for updates, and to share photos and memories at https://everloved.com/life-of/david-blackford/funeral/