Richard William Blasdale ’65

Bill died Jan. 30, 2025, leaving a legacy of family values, committed service, generosity and leadership. He grew up in Mattapoisett, Mass., and graduated from Tabor Academy. While at Princeton he served as the leader of the Debate Panel.

After graduation he married Mary Jean Schmidt, whom he had met when they were 15. They became residents of Mattapoisett, where Bill served as selectman and then town moderator over three decades. He was known for his diplomacy, wit, and ability to build consensus in these town roles. His generosity was well known, and he helped to found the Southcoast Community Foundation and served on the board of several groups in the Southcoast Hospital System. He also served on the board of Tabor Academy for 25 years, including 15 as board chair.

Bill’s professional career was divided into two acts. He served as president and CEO of Julius Koch USA, a Danish textile company in New Bedford. After 28 years he went back to school and became a certified financial planner. He co-founded Seamark Financial in 1996 and retired as president in June of 2024.

Bill is survived by his wife, Mary Jean; daughter Amy Blasdale-Cushing and spouse Brad Cushing; son Spencer Blasdale ’90 and spouse Nell; and granddaughters Avery and Hadley.