Theodore (Ted) Douglas Blackman, age 85, was born on March 18, 1929 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. His parents were Theodore Vance Blackman and Marguerite Douglas Blackman, both naturalized American citizens who immigrated from Canada. The youngest of three children, he had two sisters, Betty Blackman Marsh and Anne Blackman Mase. Ted graduated from Tulsa Central High School in 1947, and attended Oklahoma A&M (now OSU) for 3 semesters. He moved to Lovington , New Mexico in 1950 where he met and married the love of his life, LaNelle Thomas, on February 3, 1951. They were married for 63 years and had 3 children Larry, Janice and Debbie. Ted had various careers over the years that resulted in relocations to California, Texas, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and ultimately, back to Texas. He loved his family and friends, dogs (especially lap dogs) and tickling children. He built and flew radio-controlled airplanes as a hobby when he was younger. He loved the lake, and everything it had to offer - boating, fishing, skiing, or just floating while listening to Jimmy Buffett music. He enjoyed the occasional round of golf with friends and family. He took pride in a well-kept/manicured lawn and a clean car. Ted and LaNelle retired to Lake Kiowa, Texas in 1997 where he enjoyed many of his favorite things until his health deteriorated to the point where he was no longer able. He died on May 4, 2014 of kidney failure, after courageously battling multiple health problems for a number of years. Memorial Service to be held at 2:30 on Tuesday, May 20, 2014 at Arapaho United Methodist Church, located at 1400 West Arapaho Road, Richardson, Texas. Arrangements are under the direction of ARIA Cremation Service and Funeral Home 19310 Preston Road Dallas, Texas 75252 214-306-6700