Barbara Blakeslee

Barbara (Lane) Blakeslee, 85, of DeLand, Florida, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2026, in the comfort of God’s grace.

Born on September 1, 1940, to Robert and Florence Lane, she was raised in Tuckahoe, New York. There, she attended school, began her working life, and formed lifelong friendships—including Lucille and Dotty, who later became her children’s godmothers.

Barbara began her career as an industrial relations secretary in 1972 and through dedication and perseverance, advanced to the role of Manager of Human Resources. She earned a bachelor’s degree from SUNY Albany in business management and economics, as well as a certification in Labor Studies from Cornell University School of Industrial Relations, reflecting her commitment to professional growth and excellence. In 1995, Barbara relocated to Deland, Florida continuing her role for Sherwood Medical, where she retired after a long, successful career. Following her retirement, Barbara continued to stay active by working at the News Journal, which she fondly referred to as her “fun little job,” a role she truly enjoyed.

Throughout her life, Barbara was deeply committed to giving back to her community. She was an active member of several organizations, including the Volusia Manufacturing Association in DeLand, Florida; the Industrial Relations Research Association in Albany, New York; and the Greater Glens Falls Personnel Council. She also served as a dedicated board member of the Adirondack Girl Scout Council, the Community Workshop, and Zonta International in Glens Falls, New York. In addition, Barbara volunteered as a Big Sister, generously mentoring and supporting youth with compassion and care.

Barbara had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and found great joy spending time on her boat, Lane’s Law, on beautiful Lake George. In 2008, she married Stephen Blakeslee, in a joyful celebration surrounded by loved ones. Together, they built a life filled with love and laughter, including treasured summers at their beloved Camp Lil’ Treasure on the Hudson River, where they created lasting memories with family and friends.

She is survived by her husband of seventeen years, Stephen Blakeslee; her daughters, Deborah Westerfield (Chuck) of Phoenix, AZ, and Denise Troelstra (Fred) of Queensbury, NY; her brother, Robert Lane of California; and her beloved grandchildren, Lane (Madeline) and Carson (Maddie) Westerfield, and Anneke and Johanna Troelstra. She is also survived by her three great-grandchildren, Emmie, Jack, and Thomas Westerfield, and Steve’s daughters, Dana (Daniel Latvick) and Dory Blakeslee.

Barbara will be remembered for her strong work ethic, adventurous spirit, and love of laughter, which brought warmth and joy to all who knew her. We invite all friends and family to a celebration of life gathering at the Docksider Restaurant on Glen Lake, NY, on June 11, 2026 from 12:00 -2:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society. The family extends their sincere gratitude to Dr. Robert Holloway and his team at the Advent Health Cancer Center, as well as the Alliance Rehabilitation Center and Advent Hospice for their exceptional care, compassion, and support.