Paul Winthrop Blanchard, 75, of Ashland, MA, passed away suddenly at home on March 31, 2024. He was the husband of Kathleen (“Kathy”) Blanchard to whom he was married for 50 blessed years, a milestone recently celebrated with family near his longtime residence in Burlington, MA, as well as at Mass with his fellow congregants at Saint Mary’s Parish in Grafton, MA.
In addition to his beloved wife, Kathy, of Ashland, MA, he leaves behind his children, Dr. Gary Blanchard (and daughter-in law, Dr. Brandi Hoag-Blanchard), of South Grafton, MA, and daughter Krista Brother, of Framingham, MA, always joyful and glowing with pride when discussing all of them. He will be dearly missed by his cherished grandchildren, Olivia and Logan Blanchard, whom he was instrumental in raising, never missing a dance recital, practice, game, concert, or graduation. He is also survived by his younger brothers, Barry Blanchard, of Hyannis, MA, and Douglas Blanchard, and his wife Karen of Sykesville, MD, and many loving cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Vernon and Helen Blanchard, of 64 years, of Hyannis, MA.
Paul was a warm, giving, and gentle man, often described as a "big teddy bear," beloved by all who knew him. He was adored for his kindness, selflessness, and handyman nature, loving to spend days outdoors on his favorite red Craftsman tractor. Paul was a dedicated Eucharistic Minister at multiple parishes, spanning roughly 40 years. He loved dogs, caring for Ginger, Lily, Kimber, Nash, and Nugget with endless time and affection.
Paul was born on October 22, 1948, in Brockton, MA. He grew up in Whitman, MA, until 1964, attending Whitman Hanson Regional High School through sophomore year, before moving to Hyannis and graduating from Barnstable High School in 1966. In 1968, Paul earned an associate degree in electrical engineering from Franklin Institute, then in 1971 earning his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Northeastern University. Paul was a proud ROTC member at Northeastern University and served in the Army reserve. He had a successful career managing Bent Electrical Contractors’ warehouse for many years as well as working as a civil engineer and job recruiter. He also loved being a Scoutmaster and Quartermaster for Troop 511 in Burlington, MA.
Visiting hours will be held on Saturday, April 6, 2024, from 9:00 am to 11:30 am at Roney Funeral Home (152 Worcester St., North Grafton), followed by a Funeral Mass at 12:00 pm at Saint Mary's Parish, North Grafton, MA with interment to follow at Pine Grove Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saint Mary's Parish, the American Heart Association, or The Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Paul will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and angelically, steadfastly looking over his grandchildren throughout their lives.