Donald A. Blanchard Sr, 80

PORTLAND -- Donald A. Blanchard Sr., 80, passed away Oct. 24, 2011 after a brief illness surrounded by his family. Don was born in Portland on Sept. 11, 1931, the son of Edward E. and Priscilla Blanchard.

Don spent his summers on Peaks Island with his grandparents as a child. He graduated from Deering High School in 1949, where he was an active member of the High School reunion committee. He went on to marry his high school sweetheart, Beth Utterstrom, in1951.

He served 6 years in the Army National Guard.

After his father's death in 1971, Don took over his father's plastering business and expanded it into Blanchard Construction Co. He was a longtime resident of Cheabeague Island and worked for Cheabeague Island Transportation Co. before retiring.

Don was an avid outdoorsman, history buff, loved hunting with his sons, boating and flying. He was a member of the Bald Eagles Flying Club and Aircraft Owners & Pilots Assoc. (AOPA)

Don's survivors include his wife of 60 years, Beth Utterstrom Blanchard, his sister, Barbara and her husband Kendall Hussey of Cape Elizabeth, his brother, Edward E., Jr. and wife, June Blanchard of Port Charlotte, Fla.; his daughter, Elaine Blanchard Anthony and husband William of Falmouth, along with his sons, Donald A. and Malee Blanchard Jr. of Stratton, Steven M. Blanchard and wife Judith Mulligan, of Scarborough, and Jerald Blanchard and Joyce Charrier of Scarborough. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Greene and the staff the Gibson Pavillion at Maine Medical Center, as well as the Scarborough Rescue.

Don passed as he lived, with a sense of humor and love for his family.

A private burial was held on Saturday, Oct. 29, 2011 at Brooklawn Memorial Park in Portland. Arrangements were under the guidance of Independent Death Care, 660 Brighton Ave in Portland. To offer words of condolence to the family, sign a guest book and share memories, go to the obituary page at www.independentdeathcare.com

Any donations can be made to:
The Barbara Bush Children's
Hospital or Scarborough Rescue