Gerard A. "Gerry" Blanchette

WOONSOCKET - Gerard A. "Gerry" Blanchette, 76, of Woonsocket, passed away Friday evening. He was the loving husband of Diane F. (Bessette) Blanchette. They were married on May 21, 1960.

Born and raised in Woonsocket, he was a son of the late Lucien and Noella (Leduc) Blanchette. He was a resident of the city for most of his life.

A career military man, Mr. Blanchette served in the U.S. Army for over 20 years and attained the rank of Sergeant First Class.

Among the numerous decorations and citations for his exemplary service are the Army Achievement, Good Conduct, National Defense Service, Armed Forces and Army Reserve medals. Gerry was both very proud and humbled to have served his country for much of his adult life.

Following his service he continued participating in several organizations in support of veterans, including the American Legion, AMVETS and DAV. Gerry also extended his trademark patriotism through his volunteer work at the Providence VA hospital. He was a member of a group dubbed the "Trench Rats," serving as a shuttle driver, visiting patients and assisting with various aspects of caregiving and morale.

In civilian life, Gerry was employed as a professional truck driver for McLaughlin-Moran Budweiser Distributors. He was also a member of the Cercle Laurier, the B.P.O.E. Lodge # 850 in Woonsocket, and the Sayles Hill Rod and Gun Club. Gerry also enjoyed fishing, bowling, photography and softball. Gerry was a devoted husband and father and loved his grandchildren with all his heart.

In addition to his wife of 56 years, he is survived by three sons, Glenn R. Blanchette (Ann) of Warrenton, Va.; Gary P. Blanchette (Peraline) of Stokesdale, N.C.; and Gregg A. Blanchette (Michaelle) of North Smithfield. He was the brother of Robert Blanchette (Debra) of Franklin. He is also survived by his grandchildren Phillippe, Alexander, Kyle, Greer, Erin and Grace, and his nieces Danielle and Renee.

His funeral will be Wednesday at 9 a.m. from the Menard-Lacouture Funeral Home, 127 Carrington Ave., Woonsocket, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in St. Agatha Church, Fairfield Avenue, Woonsocket. Burial with military honors will follow in Resurrection Cemetery, Cumberland. Visiting hours are Tuesday from 5 to 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Rhode Island Veterans Home, 480 Metacom Ave., Bristol, RI. 02809.

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