Edward John Bludnicki, 92, of Ansonia, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on February 1, 1934, Edward was the beloved son of the late Stanley F. Bludnicki and Elizabeth E. Bludnicki of Ansonia.
Edward was a lifelong member of the Ansonia community. He attended St. Joseph Parochial School in Ansonia and later served as a lector at the church. He attended Ansonia High School, where he was active in student council and played varsity baseball, graduating in 1951.
Following high school, Edward answered the call to serve his country. A veteran of the Korean Conflict, he graduated from the U.S. Army Guided Missile School, where he trained and served as an electronics specialist. Following his military service, Edward 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.
During this chapter of his life, Edward married the love of his life, Lorraine K. (Niezelski) Bludnicki, R.N., daughter of Theodore and Laura Niezelski of Ansonia. Together, Edward and Lorraine shared 65 wonderful years of marriage before her passing in 2022. They built a life centered on family, love, and an unwavering devotion to one another. Their marriage and the family they raised together remained among Edward’s greatest sources of pride and happiness.
Edward’s career in education began as an adjunct faculty member in the Science Department at Housatonic Community College in Bridgeport. Shortly thereafter, his passion for teaching led him to the public school system, where he became a General Science teacher. He taught at two junior high schools in Westport: Bedford Junior High School and Coleytown Junior High School.
Edward continued his career as an Honors Biology teacher at Coleytown Junior High School, teaching at both the original school and the newly constructed facility. Working under the leadership of Norm Flint and Glenn Hightower, Edward earned recognition for his dedication to students and his enthusiasm for science. He introduced a new BS/CS biology course and inspired many students through his knowledge, creativity, and commitment to excellence.
His career eventually led him into school administration. Edward served as Vice Principal of Bedford Junior High School before becoming its Principal, continuing his lifelong commitment to students, faculty, and the broader school community.
As Principal, Edward played an important role in the transition of Bedford and Coleytown Junior High Schools into middle schools. During his tenure, he introduced numerous programs designed to strengthen the school community, including a faculty-student committee, a parent ombudsman group, and Saturday School, which offered students additional academic and recreational opportunities.
Always looking for new ways to enrich the educational experience, Edward strengthened the school’s Honor Society, expanded student club activities, and supported the PTA’s cultural arts assemblies. His dedication and involvement earned him the PTA Spirit Award.
One of Edward’s most memorable contributions to education came through his lifelong fascination with science and space exploration. Drawing upon connections he had made during his Army service, he helped bring NASA personnel and Space Shuttle astronauts into the Westport school system. Through these extraordinary opportunities, students were able to communicate with astronauts while the Space Shuttle orbited overhead and hear firsthand about their experiences as Space Shuttle pilots. These experiences reflected Edward’s belief that learning should extend far beyond the walls of a classroom.
Edward’s influence even found its way into the pages of a comic strip. Dick Brooks, writer and illustrator of The Jackson Twins, unexpectedly featured Edward as a character in the strip. Brooks’ daughter had been one of Edward’s science students, a testament to the memorable impression he made on those he taught.
Edward 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. Continuing his commitment to science education, he successfully applied for and received a multi-year State of Connecticut grant to establish a regional space camp, further sharing his enthusiasm for scientific discovery with young learners.
His dedication to education and community service extended well beyond the classroom. Edward was a member of the Westport Rotary Club, serving on its Board of Directors and as Treasurer. He was also a member and Treasurer of the Tri-Town Teachers Federal Credit Union and served as Co-President of the Intermediate School Administrators Association.
Education was not simply Edward’s profession; it was one of his deepest personal values. He firmly believed that education opened doors and created opportunities, a belief he instilled in his children and grandchildren. He continually encouraged his grandchildren to study hard, earn good grades, and pursue a college degree. More importantly, he put those beliefs into action, generously helping his grandchildren with the cost of their education. To Edward, investing in his family’s future through education was one of the most meaningful ways he could support those he loved. His belief in the importance of learning and his generosity toward his family will remain an enduring part of his legacy.
Edward’s curiosity and love of science extended far beyond his professional life. An avid hobbyist and talented model builder, he had a particular passion for radio-controlled airplanes, spending countless hours building and flying them. Over the years, he constructed an impressive number of RC aircraft, as well as model rockets, combining his love of aviation, engineering, and hands-on craftsmanship. He served as President of the Connecticut State Model Building Society and participated in model aircraft and rocket competitions throughout the state. His enthusiasm for building, experimenting, and understanding how things worked remained a lifelong passion.
Edward also had a love for automobiles, particularly his cherished Mazda Miata, which he owned and maintained for the better part of four decades. He enjoyed working on the car himself, reflecting the same mechanical curiosity, patience, and attention to detail that characterized so many of his interests. Whether he was building an airplane, launching a model rocket, or working on his Miata, Edward found great satisfaction in creating, improving, and understanding the things he loved.
Edward also loved golf and enjoyed playing whenever time permitted. He appreciated both the challenge of the game and the opportunity to spend time on the course. Among his fondest golfing memories was achieving a hole-in-one at Homewood Acres Golf Course, an accomplishment he particularly treasured.
Above all, Edward was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. While he accomplished so much throughout his professional life, his family held a special place in his heart. He cherished traveling with his children, spending time with loved ones, and sharing in the lives and accomplishments of his family.
Together, Edward and Lorraine built a family that grew to span four generations. The life they created, the love they shared, and the values they passed along to their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren are an enduring part of their legacy. Edward’s commitment to education, his endless curiosity, his generosity, and his devotion to family will continue to influence the generations that follow him.
Edward is survived by his three children: Edward (Catherine) Bludnicki, Laura (Michael) Binkowski, and Karen Pernaselci. He also leaves behind ten grandchildren: Michael (Jocelyn) Binkowski, Chelsea (Michael) Sevigny, Emily Bludnicki, Claire Bludnicki, Mitchell Bludnicki, Hannah Bludnicki, Troy Pernaselci, Luke Pernaselci, Kyra Pernaselci, and Chloe Pernaselci; and three great-grandchildren: Spencer Binkowski, Stella Sevigny, and Cameron Sevigny.
Edward was predeceased by his beloved wife, Lorraine K. (Niezelski) Bludnicki, in 2022; his brother, Benjamin S. Bludnicki of Trumbull, CT; and his sister, Jean E. (Bludnicki) Gesek of Seymour, CT. He is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews, including Mary Bludnicki of Trumbull, CT.
Edward will be remembered not only for his distinguished career in education, his service to his country, and his lifelong curiosity about the world, but most importantly for the love and devotion he shared with his family. He believed deeply in the power of education, the importance of hard work, and the value of helping others achieve their potential. He led by example, combining intellectual curiosity with generosity, kindness, and an enduring commitment to those he loved.
His influence lives on in the countless students he inspired, the communities he helped strengthen, and the generations of family who will carry his memory forward. The lessons he taught, the opportunities he helped create, and the love he shared will remain with them always.
A life of service, a lifetime of learning, and a legacy of love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Family and friends may call on Friday, October 16, 2026 from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the Wakelee Memorial Funeral Home, 167 Wakelee Avenue, Ansonia. Funeral services will take place from the Wakelee Memorial Funeral Home on Saturday, October 17, 2026 at 9:00 AM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 AM in St. Joseph Church, 32 Jewett Street, Ansonia. Interment with Full Military Honors will follow in St. Michael Cemetery, Derby. Online condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com.