Audrey Phillips Blaich

Audrey P. Blaich, 89, of Poplar Bluff, died Wednesday, March 26, 2014 at her residence. Mrs. Blaich was born Dec. 1, 1924 in St. Louis, Mo. Graduating as salutatorian for South West High School Class of 1941 in St. Louis, she later attended Washington University. Mrs. Blaich and late husband, Dr. George F. Blaich III moved to Poplar Bluff in 1949, when he began his practice in dental medicine. She was a longtime member of First United Methodist Church and was a homemaker. Mrs. Blaich was a member of P.E.O. Chapter KB, Monday Literary Club and Bridge Club. As a pilot she enjoyed flying the family Cessna in which she won several aviation air races. She also enjoyed chartering sailboats in the Caribbean, and camping throughout the United States. Mrs. Blaich loved spending time with her family and friends, being at church and living in Poplar Bluff. In later years, Mrs. Blaich loved the grace and fellowship of the Grandin Mennonite Church and community. On Dec. 26, 1943, she married George F. Blaich III. He preceded her in death on Oct. 10, 1995. A sister, Dorothy Deam, also preceded Mrs. Blaich in death. Survivors include two sons: Rick Blaich (Lori) and John Blaich (Grace), all of Poplar Bluff; six grandchildren: Eric Blaich (Amy), Travis Blaich (Lauren), Rachel Aden (Aaron), Katie Blaich, Greg Barker (Ashley Chittenden) and Adam Barker (Brittney); several great-grandchildren; and her special friend and caregiver, Carol Coblentz. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. Monday at Cotrell Funeral Chapel in Poplar Bluff. The funeral service will follow at 11:30 a.m. in the funeral chapel with Rev. David Stewart officiating. Burial will be in the Poplar Bluff City Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Boy Scout Troop 166, 2700 Kanell Blvd., Poplar Bluff, MO 63901.