Jean Bluestein

BLUESTEIN-Jean Bluestein died Thursday, May 06, 2010 at the age of 95. She lived the life she dreamed about while growing up on a small farm in Missouri. In 1937 she accepted a job as a "Harvey Girl," relocated to New Mexico and spent three summers working at the Grand Canyon to earn tuition money. She often described her charming "Harvey Girl" experiences to numerous organizations. In 1941, she graduated from the first class for Continental Airline stewardesses. Years later, she donated her uniform to the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, and it still fit. At UNM, she joined Chi Omega Sorority, and graduated with a BA in Education in 1941. She returned in 1953, and earned her MA in Education. She taught in the Albuquerque Public Schools for 29 years with 25 years at Sandia Base School. Numerous organizations recognized her as an outstanding educator. As a charter member of Delta Kappa Gamma and later Alpha Delta Kappa, she made a significant contribution toward recognizing dedicated educators in New Mexico. Former students, their parents, and fellow educators communicated with her for years. In 1967, she started working with People to People, an international high school student exchange program. For 27 years as a teacher leader then Area and Regional Director of the program, she took student ambassadors around the world. She also served as a Kachina Greeter for the Chamber of Commerce for over thirteen years. Mrs. Bluestein is survived by her three children, four grandchildren Shannon, Grant, Erin and Clint, and two great grandchildren, Grady and Jillian. Her oldest son, Steve Bluestein and his wife Margaret live in Houston, TX. Her daughter, Diane Brown lives in Santa Rosa, CA, and her youngest son, Frank Bluestein and his wife Deona live in Colorado Springs, CO. Her memories of family and friends were her most valued possessions. She requested that memorial contributions be made to a charity of choice.