Gerard Willis Blanchard

Gerard (Jerry) Willis Blanchard age 80 of Alma, formerly of Mt. Pleasant, passed away peacefully at Masonic Pathways in Alma, MI. Jerry was born on October 14, 1942, in Atlanta GA, son of the late Paul and Emma (Pride) Blanchard. He graduated from St. Pius X High School in 1961 and married his loving wife, Janice K. Haefele, on March 29, 1970, in Augusta, GA. Jerry proudly served his country, first as a Sonar Tech in the U.S. Navy and then in the Michigan National Guard.  He and Janice lived in Augusta for 5 years, where he worked as a Court Reporter, and he continued his career with the Isabella County Circuit Court after moving to Michigan. Jerry was a devoted parishioner at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church and member of the Knights of Columbus.  Jerry enjoyed listening to music, cruising the Caribbean with Janice, and quiet evenings by the fire.  Most of all he adored his 3 daughters, speaking of them with pride, on countless occasions, to anyone who would listen. He will be greatly missed by so many. Jerry is survived by his wife, Janice; daughters Holly Blanchard of Ludington, Laurie (Henry) Balfanz of Shepherd, and Marianne (Todd) Kotecki of Ludington; nine grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; sister, Nancy (Thomas) Stump of Atlanta; and many nieces and nephews. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and five siblings.  Jerry's life will be celebrated at an 11 am mass on Wednesday, May 31, at Shepherd's St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church. The family will receive friends one hour before Mass. Jerry will be laid to rest in St Vincent de Paul Catholic Cemetery in Shepherd, MI. Memorial contributions may be made to the church's food pantry. To sign the online guest book or leave condolences for the family, please visit CharlesRLux.com.