September 1, 1940 ~ February 18, 2004
George H. Blomgren
Born on 9/1/40 in Norwich N.Y., George passed away in the morning on February 18th due to complications from Multiple Sclerosis, a disease he battled for 18 years. A graduate of Cornell University with a B.S. and M.S. in electrical engineering, his final work towards a PhD in computer science was cut short by his military commitment in 1968. George worked for 3 years in the Defense Intelligence Agency then continued his military career as a Reserve Officer in the Army and attained the rank of Lt. Colonel. He retired from the military service in 1986 due to the onset of M.S. George worked as a computer scientist in the private sector beginning in 1971. His career almost entirely entailed working on classified projects for the defense of his country. He was a pioneer in his field and instrumental in creating early computer languages.
George was raised in Ithaca, New York, moved to Washington D.C. area in 1969 due to his work at the Pentagon in the Army, George and his family moved to Torrance in 1979. He was married for 43 years to his wife Mary, and survived by her, their 2 children Polly and Martin, his older brother Jim, and 4 grandchildren.
George loved Ithica and was proud to be raised there. He lived on Geneva, 404 Senaca and 716 Aurora St., until moving away for government service. His parents, Elmer and Mabel Blomgren lived in Ithica for over 50 years. Elmer was the general secretary of the Ithica YMCA and if you are a baby boomer, you may remember him and the ''basement pool''. George graduated from Ithica High School in 1957 and returned for every reunion until he was unable to travel due to M.S. George was also a lifeguard at Tauganock State Park as a youth. Though he moved away due to a career in serving the Untied States as a computer specialist, he returned several times every year to visit friends and family, and he always considered Ithica ''home''.
George was known for his kindness, intellect, positive sense of humor, love of sports and bad puns. He was beloved by family and co-workers alike and always a joy to be around. George was a loving and supportive husband and father who will be sorely missed by all.
A memorial service has been scheduled for Saturday, March 6, 2004, 2:00PM at the First Baptist Church of Palos Verdes, 28 Moccasin Lane, Rolling Hills Estates, CA
Jim, my sincerest symphathies to you and the family in the passing of George. I remember him when you and I were together always wanting to accompany us anywhere we were going, even though he was a lot younger that you and I. Again my (and Cella\’s) sincerest sympathies to the family. Write if you can, Address is PO Box 133, Dryden, NY 13053. If you get back to the area call 607 844-8806 Ralph and Sandy Button.
We were co-workers with George at Geodynamics Corp. We all enjoyed working with George because of his positive attitude and great sense of humor. I remember George always referred to his wife, Mary, as his “Bride”. We had a pun contest at Geodyanmics and George badly wanted to win so he submitted 10 puns. Unfortunately, when it came to winning, no pun intended! George will be remembered with kindness. Our sincere sympathies to his family and his “bride”. Paul and Irene