Youthful, lovable, gentle, missed terribly
Teddy was a beloved figure, both by his family and large group of friends. If you knew Teddy, you were very familiar with his infectious humor, adventurous spirit, and deep love of the outdoors. From a young age, his zest for life was apparent, particularly through his passion for hunting and fishing. His playful nature and sense of humor was evident, even as a child. At the age of four he wore a pair of cowboy boots every single day for an entire year, irrespective of the weather conditions.
Sports played a central role in Teddy’s life. His athleticism was evident during his high school and college years, where he excelled in several disciplines. After graduating from high school, he spent a year at New Hampton Prep School, followed by further education at Springfield University and Plymouth State College. Teddy’s high school years were marked by his significant contributions to the varsity hockey team, where he played several seasons alongside his brother, Max. The Dalton boys were a formidable force. While at New Hampton, he was instrumental in leading the football team to a major championship win.
Family holidays were a time of joy and activity for Teddy, who was one of seven siblings. Among his siblings, he shared a particularly close relationship with his sister, Heather, and her children. His bond with his niece, Rory, was especially strong, reflecting his deep affection for his family. Teddy often dreamed of a future where he would have a home of his own, surrounded by his own family. His kindness was evident in many ways. After his passing, a woman from his apartment building reached out to Heather, sharing how Teddy always rushed to help her with her groceries when he saw her return home. This simple but meaningful gesture exemplified Teddy’s nature.
Despite his strengths and accomplishments, Teddy’s life was marked by significant challenges. He battled addiction for 16 years and went through numerous cycles of treatment, recovery, and relapse. Following Teddy’s death, Heather chose to turn her personal loss into a mission of service. Drawing on her own experiences, she dedicated her life to supporting individuals grappling with addiction. Heather’s efforts emphasize that relapse is often a crucial component of the recovery journey, and she is committed to fostering compassion and support for those navigating their own paths through addiction.
Teddy’s sister, Heather Blumenfield, provided the information for this narrative.
July 11, 1980–June 12, 2014–Age 33
Portrait Artist: Cecil Norris
Narrative Writer: Justin Teague
