Painted Post, NY
Blaine H. “Abe” Chambers – 75 – a resident of Three Rivers Nursing Facility in Painted Post, NY, died early Monday morning (June 16, 2025) at Corning Hospital following a long illness.
Born in Baltimore, MD on June 19, 1949, he was the son of William & Mary (Seibert) Chambers.
Abe grew up in the Baltimore area and attended Dundalk High School. During his senior year, he left school to join the US Army, wanting to serve his country during the Vietnam War. While stationed in Vietnam, Abe served as a helicopter pilot and would pick up wounded soldiers and transport them to military hospitals. While flying, Blaine was constantly under fire from the enemy who knew that if they took down a US Army helicopter that the wounded soldiers could not get medical care. Having been wounded himself, Blaine received a Purple Heart Medal and, during his military service, saved countless lives. He also received the Bronze Star Medal.
After receiving his General Education Development Certificate (GED) through the GI Bill and later earned his Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering. For nearly 30 years, Abe was employed at Lockheed Martin Corporation, retiring in 2004 as Chief Aerospace Engineer.
Following his retirement from Lockheed Martin Corporation, Abe resided in Terra Alta, WV for several years, moving to New York State about 12 years ago. He always had a love for nature and the outdoors. Blaine enjoyed cutting grass, wood carving as well as watching old western TV shows. In his younger years, he also enjoyed deer hunting and fishing although he didn’t have the best of luck. He had a deep love of family and especially loved spending time with his grandkids attending their sporting events and other activities.
Blaine was married for 40 years to Nancy Chambers who died in 2010 and later was married to Kathy Chambers who died earlier this year.
Surviving are his daughter, Kelly Chambers of Sebastian, FL; his son, Jason (Shonna Wikel) Chambers of Avoca; his grandchildren (who affectionately called him “Pop”), Gavin Chambers, Grace Linde and Jesse Linde; along with several siblings (who called him “Sonny”); nieces & nephews.
At Blaine’s request there will be no calling hours. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Blaine’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.
Blaine. Nancy, and family would come up to the farm in Terra Alta, WV for the annual reunion. AS a child, I looked forward to that time of year. I would play games and ride 4 wheelers with his kids (my cousins). I remember him sitting on the back porch. Later, I remember he and Nancy living in Terra Alta. I wish all those whose lives he touched fond memories and peace as we remember his life. I last saw him a few years back when his grandson was playing football in Huntingdon, PA. Reading is obituary, I knew he served in Vietnam. I didn’t know about the purple heart or bronze star. I wonder how many men are alive and what great things they have done thanks to Blaine flying them out of combat and into a medical facility. May God bless his children and all those who knew him.