Robert J. Blanchette

Houlton - Robert J. Blanchette, 83, died after a sudden illness on December 4, 2025. In the days before, he had enjoyed attending and participating in the 70th Houlton Rotary Club Auction with his fellow Rotarians, Thanksgiving and birthday celebration with his family.
Robert (Bob/Turkey), born on November 29, 1942, was a lifetime Houlton resident and was the third son of nine children born to Onezime and Ernestine (Rossignol) Blanchette. Bob attended St. Mary's Catholic School, a Franciscan Seminary in Upstate New York, Houlton High School and was a lifelong communicant at St. Mary's Catholic Church. Bob's interest in electronics and computers began in the 60's while working at WHOU Radio. Bob spent 33 years at the station - as a DJ, program director, sports announcer, salesman, copywriter, part-time engineer, anything that needed doing. His hobby of computers turned into his own business, Computer Assist. He finished his career at Houlton Regional Hospital as their Network Administrator for 16 years. In retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his family and traveling to Florida with his wife, Mary. His interest in community service began in the late 1960's as one of the founding members of the Houlton Jaycees and then continued with the Houlton Rotary Club where he was a Paul Harris Fellow and received a Lifetime Achievement award for his service.
Bob was predeceased by his beloved wife of 58 years, Mary (Henderson) Blanchette; his parents, Onezime and Ernestine (Rossignol) Blanchette; and his brothers, Gary, Roger, Donald, Brian and David. His memory will be cherished by his children, Deborah Ropple and husband, Edward, of W. Charleston, VT; Peter Blanchette and wife, Rhonda of Houlton, ME, his grandchildren, Andrew Blanchette and wife, Christiana of Manchester, NH; Christopher Blanchette of Saco, ME; Benjamin Ropple of Tucson, AZ; Edward Ropple and wife, Gabby of Braintree, MA; as well as his siblings Richard Blanchette and wife, Terry of Saco, ME; Ann Prendergast and husband, John of Litchfield, NH; as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.
Friends may call Monday December 15, from 10-11am at St Mary's Catholic Church Military St. Houlton with a mass of Christian Burial being held at 11am with Fa. Kevin Martin officiating. Spring interment will be in the St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery. Flowers appreciated, but those who wish may donate to the Houlton Rotary Club in Bob's memory. To share condolence and memories please visit www.bowersfuneral.com