Astrid Barbra Caroline Blackwell

Published 10:53 am Monday, March 18, 2024

Astrid Barbra Caroline Blackwell

May 31, 1927 – March 4, 2024

Obituary text Born in Fort-Dauphin, Madagascar to Norwegian missionaries (Richard and Marie Cartford) Astrid’s life was characterized by a passion for her faith, family, and community throughout her 96 years. She was giving, kind, genuine, faithful and caring, all while balancing motherhood, a career, and a significant number of personal interests.

At 17, Astrid left Madagascar and attended St Olaf College in Northfield, MN, then entered the nurses’ training program at Swedish Hospital in Minneapolis. While there she met Richard (Dick) Blackwell. They fell in love, but couldn’t be married while she was in training or she would face expulsion. Upon her graduation in 1950 they were married by Astrid’s father, Reverand Cartford.

After many moves, due to Dick’s military service, the Blackwells landed in Oregon in 1964, decided to stay, and raised 4 children. While living in Portland, Astrid worked as an RN at Emmanuel Hospital, sang in the Portland Symphonic Choir, joined Dick on many Mazama climbing outings, played in a bowling league, taught Sunday school, and was a Girl Scout leader.

In 1972, the family moved to Bend where Astrid continued her career as an RN for 13 years at Bend Memorial Clinic, until retirement in 1985, when she and Dick began extensive travel. Astrid was a faithful member of Trinity Lutheran Church, singing in the choir, playing handbells, piano and the organ. She enjoyed Bible studies, and attended many Trinity school events, whether her granddaughters were involved or not. Astrid also sang in the Cascade Chorale, was a founding member of Central Oregon Recorders, and was an active member of the Sons of Norway.

A lifelong learner, Astrid spoke English, Norwegian, French, Malagasy, and Spanish.

Astrid is survived by her loving husband Dick Blackwell, and children Karin(Bill), Gwen(Scott), Scott(Carol), and Lisa(Paul), 9 grandchildren, and 6 great grandchildren.

A celebration of her life will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church at 1pm on March 24. In lieu of flowers please consider donations to the “Trinity building fund” at www.trinitylutheranbend.org