from the USTA Communications Department

Columbus, OH — George L. “Lee” Blodgett, 56, died April 20, 2017, at the health center of St. Joseph Warren Hospital.

He was born May 26, 1960, in Gardiner, Maine, the son of the late George Blodgett and Patricia McLaughlin.

He was self-employed as a Standardbred trainer and was a member of the Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association.

Mr. Blodgett was actively involved in harness racing, racing at various tracks across the country throughout his lifetime. He particularly enjoyed racing his trotting mare, Norma’s Rose.

He was an avid New England sports fan. He loved spending time with his family and friends, laughing and telling stories.

He is survived by his wife, Lori; mother, Patricia McLaughlin; daughters, Brianna (Thomas) Neer and Courtney; sisters, Sharon Nichols, Carol Swan and Kelly McLaughlin; grandsons, Connor Neer and Caleb Neer; granddaughter, Cara Neer; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, George.

Family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday (April 27) at McFarland & Son Funeral Home, Warren, Ohio. A memorial service will be at 10 a.m. Friday (April 28) at McFarland & Son Funeral Home, with the Rev. Carl Kish officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to New Vocations, 13580 Leeper Perkins Rd., Marysville, OH 43040 or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.