Kristian William Blackwell

Kristian William Blackwell of Portland, Oregon was called home in flight on Wednesday, July 1, 2015 at the age of 29. He is survived by his loving wife, Clare (Feeley) Blackwell, his parents, Martin and Annie Blackwell, brother, Terris Blackwell, and an immeasurable number of family and friends who care deeply for him. He was the true definition of devoted husband and loyal friend. All who knew Kristian, loved Kristian. He had a voracious appetite...for food, dancing, Clare, and life. Kristian spent his childhood learning to ice skate in Random Lake, Wisconsin, and later excelled in surfing, football, and volunteering with the Civil Air Patrol as a teenager in Gold Beach, Oregon. From a very young age, it was apparent that Aviation was his life's passion. After graduating with his Bachelor's degree from the University of Oregon, he worked in various project management roles while planning to enroll in flight school. Before fulfilling his dream and becoming a student helicopter pilot, Kristian took private flying lessons in fixed-wing aircraft and would enthusiastically explain complex aeronautical facts to friends as if they were second nature. His knowledge and passion for flight seemed endless in every regard. Kristian accomplished so much to reflect his zest for life, including a Wilderness Emergency Medical Technician license through the National Outdoor Leadership School, PADI Scuba Diver certification, tactical marksmanship training, solo skydiving, and advanced fire & rescue coursework. He was a leader who was humble in his successes and encouraging of others. When he wasn't spending time in the air, Kristian's hobbies included running, weightlifting, watching the Oregon Ducks, Portland Timbers or Kansas City Royals with Clare, dancing at 80's night at the Crystal Ballroom, and working on his beloved Mazda Miata, which he drove with the convertible top down every chance he could. Kristian loved to travel and cherished recent trips he and Clare's family took to the Caribbean and Ireland. At home, he was always encouraging Clare to go on hikes with him in Forest Park, take a long drive to the beach in Manzanita, see a new movie or try adventurous food. He loved playing with their two cats and looked after Clare in every way. He was steadfast in her happiness and their unconditional love for each other after was apparent to all. Kristian looked sharp, had a sharp wit, and a sharp eye. He was an incredibly kind soul, sincere, unselfish and fiercely invested in the lives of others. His warm, gregarious presence often filled any room he walked into. He was often the instigator of evenings spent laughing over board games or nights out with friends... he danced hard and made sure everyone enjoyed the party. He will be profoundly missed. In lieu of flowers, Kristian's family asks to consider making a charitable contribution to the Air Care Alliance, the Tillamook Forest Center, and/or the Oregon Humane Society. His Celebration of Life will be held at Finley-Sunset Hills Memorial Park,6801 SW Sunset Hwy, Portland, OR on Saturday, July 11 at 7:00PM.