Neil Richard Blaksley, 84, of Northwood, Ohio passed away on January 22, 2009, in his home. He was born on May 10, 1924, to Owen and Irene (Mapes) Blaksley in Millbury, Ohio. Neil was a 1943 graduate of Lake High School. After graduating he joined the Army Air Corp and attended both the Medical Training School and Norwich University where he studied Aeronautics. He was later transferred to the Army where he served as a medtech during World War II. He received the American Theatre Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Victory Medal and One Bronze Star. After discharge he married Jeanne Blausey on December 27, 1948. Mr. Blaksley graduated from the University of Toledo in 1950 with a Bachelor of Science degree. He began working in 1951 for Toledo Testing Laboratory as chief chemist and later was promoted to vice president and served on the board of directors. In 1968 he was made general manager and acting director until 1972 when he was promoted to director. In 1972 he would also receive his Ohio State Professional Engineering license. In 1983 he joined Product Analysis and Structural Testing Inc. where his responsibilities included civil and chemical engineering. During this time he obtained engineering licenses in many states. Later, Neil would start his own engineering company, Blaksley and Associates, which he operated with his son, David. Neil is survived by his loving wife, Jeanne; daughters, Deborah Nichols, Karen Blaksley, Cynthia (Leon) Bekier and Jodi (Adam) Lesniewicz; sister, Patricia (Robert) Schnur; brother, Richard Blaksley; 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, Owen and Irene; brother, Dale and son, David. Many friends and family called him by his nickname, "Obey". His hobbies included the construction of several houses, gardening and many other woodworking projects. He also enjoyed playing chess, pinochle and drives to Crane Creek State Park. He loved spending time with his family and friends and touched the hearts of all who knew him. Neil was an inspiration to everyone and was always willing to lend a helping hand. He will be greatly missed by family and friends. We will always love him and he will remain forever in our hearts. Funeral services will be held on Friday at 1:00 p.m. in the Eggleston Meinert Pavley Funeral Home, Millbury Chapel, 1111 Woodville Road, where visitation will begin on Friday from 11:00 a.m. and continue until services begin at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow in Lake Township Cemetery. Memorial contributions in Neil's memory may be made to St. Peter United Church of Christ, Millbury. The family wishes to thank everyone at Hospice of Northwest Ohio for their loving care. Visitation: Friday, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Services: Friday, 1:00 p.m. Interment: Lake Township Cemetery