David "Capitan Dave" Blackmer

David Thomas Blackmer, a long time resident of the Fox Valley, passed on February 12, 2020 after losing his courageous battle to pancreatic cancer. He is survived by the love of his life, Allison and his children; daughter Dawn Zajac, (husband Mike), sons Chris Blackmer (wife Sheri), Jeremy Blackmer, Matthew Blackmer, James Blackmer and grandchildren Garrison Trebolo, Dawson Trebolo and Damien Blackmer. Dave loved his family first and foremost and was very proud of all of them.

“Captain Dave” was the moniker known among his boating friends even before he had achieved a Captain License. With Allison and a crew of close friends, he sailed his 54' dream vessel, the Black Swan, home from Florida on an unforgettable month long journey. Dave had a large extended family of kindred spirits from Lake Winnebago to Lake Michigan. Dave loved to celebrate the 4th of July and organized Pirate Days complete with food, rum and a cannon he built to announce the start of the festivities!

Dave loved fireworks. He liked them big and he wanted them loud! He was a pyrotechnics enthusiast and with several close friends and family, organized and launched many July 4th displays, including the City of Neenah and many neighborhood and marina shows.

Early in his career as a computer expert, Dave traveled the world developing custom software for the paper industry. Always the entrepreneur, Dave later was part of a team that created a business specializing in software for the convenience store industry.

Dave's passions included riding his Harley. When not riding or sailing, he could be found in the midst of many projects from rebuilding motorcycles, car engines, working on projects around the house or varnishing the Black Swan. Somehow, he always made time for helping friends. Captain Dave will be missed.

The Blackmer Family invites you to a Celebration of Life memorial to be held at Waverly Beach Restaurant in Menasha, WI on Sunday, February 23rd from 3 – 7 pm with a short service at 4:00 pm. Pirate attire is optional!