Attorney Kevin B. Blaney Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

UTICA – Attorney Kevin B. Blaney, peacefully passed away Sunday, March 13, 2022, with those he loved most in his heart. Kevin was born in Hudson Falls, NY, on July 21, 1940, to the late Edward and Margaret (Lavey) Blaney. He was raised and educated in Utica, graduating from St. Francis de Sales High School. From there, Kevin studied Pre-Law at Boston College, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1962. He then went on to obtain his Juris Doctor Degree from Syracuse University School of Law. Kevin proudly served his country with the U.S. Army. On March 22, 1985, Kevin married the love of his life, Marilyn (Roberta) Sansone. The couple was blessed with a lovely family, and in his later years, Kevin proudly bore the title given him by his family: “WORLD’S BEST GRANDPA.” As an attorney, Kevin enjoyed a prestigious and long-time career as a Public Defender for Oneida County. One of Kevin’s greatest accomplishments was spearheading the Drug Court of Oneida County of which he was a founding member. He remained in this position for over forty years. He proudly taught law seminars periodically at NYU Law School. A community-minded man, Kevin was often involved in local-area organizations that give back to others. He was a member of the New Hartford American Legion Post 1376, as well as the Masonic Temple Utica Lodge #47 F. & A.M. In his leisure time, he turned to his favorite hobbies; woodworking, target shooting, traveling for many years – especially as snowbirds to Florida finding the bedroom community of Cape Coral to be his favorite, as well as many other destinations. As life went on, he so enjoyed spending time with his beloved grandchildren. Kevin is survived by his cherished wife, Marilyn (Roberta) Blaney; his daughters and sons-in-law, Margaret Blaney and her husband Dustin Manning of Rochester, Elizabeth and Daniel McCusker of Penfield, Sheila and Daryl Casler of Farmington, and Janene and Phil Tirado of New Hartford. Kevin always carried close to his heart the memory of his son, Matthew Blaney, who passed in 1972 as an infant. Kevin’s memory will also be cherished by his grandchildren, Caroline and Patrick Nessler, Joseph McCusker, Mallory Casler, twins Christopher McCusker, and Matthew McCusker, Mason Casler, twins Alex Tirado, and Alena Tirado; as well as his “canine” Lola. He is also survived by his sister, Maureen Flanagan of Fairport. The family wishes to express a heartfelt “thank you” to the staff and care providers at the Wilmont Cancer Center, Rochester, especially to Dr. Bushra Tbakhi and the seventh-floor staff. In recognizing the kindness and the mission of the Abraham House in Utica, memorial contributions in Kevin’s honor may be made to this organization, online at https://www.theabrahamhouse.org/donate. The family honored and commemorated Kevin’s life at a private time.

Attorney Kevin B. Blaney

July 21, 1940 - March 13, 2022