Longtime Westport school administrator Edward Bludnicki died peacefully on Sunday, surrounded by his family. He was 92.
The proud Ansonia native was active in Ansonia High student council and played baseball, graduating in 1951.
A veteran of the Korean conflict, he graduated from the US. Army Guided Missile School, where he trained and served as an electronics specialist. Ed continued his education at Southern Connecticut State University, earning both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in general and biological Sciences. He later pursued advanced studies in educational administration at Fairfield University.
Ed Bludnicki
Edward’s career in education began as an adjunct faculty member in the Science Department at Housatonic Community College. He then taught science at Bedford and Coleytown Junior Highs. He introduced a new biology course, and was a highly regarded instructor.
Moving into school administration, Ed served as vice principal and principal at Bedford Junior High. He played an important role as Bedford and Coleytown Junior Highs transitioned into middle schools.
During his tenure Ed introduced a faculty-student committee, a parent ombudsman group, and Saturday School, for additional academic and recreational opportunities.
He strengthened Bedford’s Honor Society, expanded student club activities, and supported the PTA’s cultural arts assemblies.
One of Ed’s most memorable contributions to education came through his lifelong fascination with science and space exploration. Drawing upon connections he made during his Army service, he helped bring NASA personnel and space shuttle astronauts into the Westport school system.
Students communicated with astronauts while the shuttle orbited overhead.
Ed later served as director of Westport Adult Education, overseeing programs that included English as a Second Language and GED courses. He also served as a summer school principal.
He applied for and received a multi-year state of Connecticut grant to establish a regional space camp, continuing his enthusiasm for scientific discovery with young learners.
His activities extended beyond the classroom. Ed was a board member and treasurer of the Westport Rotary Club. He was also treasurer of the Tri-Town Teachers Federal Credit Union, and co-president of the Intermediate School Administrators Association.
A talented model builder, he had a passion for radio-controlled airplanes. Over the years he constructed many aircraft and model rockets. He served as president of the Connecticut State Model Building Society, and participated in model aircraft and rocket competitions throughout the state.
Edward also loved automobiles, particularly his Mazda Miata, which he owned and maintained for nearly 4 decades.
Among his fondest golfing memories was a hole-in-one at Homewood Acres Golf Course.
Edward is survived by his children Edward (Catherine), Laura (Michael) Binkowski, and Karen Pernaselci; grandchildren Michael (Jocelyn) Binkowski, Chelsea (Michael) Sevigny; Emily, Claire. Mitchell and Hannah Bludnicki; Troy, Luke, Kyra and Chloe Pernaselci; great-grandchildren Spencer Binkowski, and Stella and Cameron Sevigny, and many nieces and nephews, including Mary Bludnicki of Trumbull.
Ed was predeceased by his wife of 65 years, Lorraine (Niezelski) Bludnicki; brother Benjamin and sister, Jean Gesek.
Family and friends may call on Friday (October 16, 4 to 7 p.m., Wakelee Funeral Home, Ansonia). Funeral services will take place from the Wakelee Funeral Home on Saturday (October 17, 9 a.m.). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. in St. Joseph Church, Ansonia. Interment with full military honors will follow in St. Michael Cemetery, Derby. Online condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com.
