Alan David Bleznak, a creative pioneer in real estate development, passed away in Palm Beach, Florida at the age of 91 on March 2, 2023. Born in Woodbury, New Jersey to Louis and Bess Bleznak, Alan attended Mercersburg Academy, which he said prepared him for his career in the family business. Throughout his teenage years, he helped his family at Holloway Lumber Company, and upon his graduation from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania in 1953, he joined his father and brother Richard at The Bleznak Organization. Together they moved into real estate development, focusing on residential properties and apartment communities in New Jersey and Maryland. Under Alan’s leadership in the 1970’s, The Bleznak Organization created The Village of Pine Run, one of New Jersey’s first Planned Unit Developments. The project won national acclaim for its commitment to maintaining ecological systems and green spaces. In the 1980’s, Alan and his father, Louis, began developing flex office warehouses in Southern New Jersey. His son, Daniel, joined Alan at The Bleznak Organization in the 1990’s, and they worked together through the end of Alan’s life.
Alan was a longstanding and generous donor to philanthropic causes including the Jewish Federations of Philadelphia and Palm Beach, The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, United Way, and Palm Beach Opera. He was a committed member of many Jewish synagogues.
After the passing of his daughter Nancy in 1972, Alan and his first wife, Sally Cooper Bleznak, created Nancy’s House, a children’s play area at the Friends School Haverford. In 2003, Alan and his wife, Kathleen, established The Patient Facilitated Services Program at the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center.
Alan was a man of impeccable style and taste. He was a dapper dresser and demonstrated his attention to detail in his home, decor and exquisite gardens. He was known for hosting dinner parties with Kathy and his longtime cook, Bertha Ashley. Alan was an avid golfer, card player, and Philadelphia sports fan.
Alan is survived by his wife of 28 years, Kathleen Harrison Bleznak; daughter Patricia Bleznak Silverstein (Howard); son Daniel Bleznak (Karen); first wife Sally Cooper Bleznak; and his adored grandchildren Carolyn and Jackson. He is predeceased by his brother Richard and daughter Nancy.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Patient Facilitated Services Program at the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center.
Relatives and friends are invited to graveside services Tuesday, March 7th, 1:00PM at Alliance Cemetery, 970 Gershal Avenue, Norma, NJ. Relatives and friends are also welcome to celebrate Alan's life at the Union League of Philadelphia following services at 3:30PM. Contributions in his memory may be made to the Patient Facilitated Services Program at the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center. A celebration of Alan’s life will also be held in Palm Beach at a later date.
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