Obituary of John A Blanchard

John Blanchard was born in Brookline, MA in 1932. John sailed around the world on the schooner Yankee with Irving and Exy Johnson in 1951. He attended Principia College in Elsah, Illinois where he met and married his bride, Betty Goebel. They were married 57 years. John served in the US Coast Guard for 20 years, retiring as a Commander. He served as the Executive Officer of the USCG Cutter Papaw, Commanding Officer of the USCG Cutter Jonquil, Commanding Officer of the USCG Cutter Laurel, Executive Officer of the US Marine Inspection Office in Baltimore, Maryland, Alternate Officer in Charge of Marine Inspection and as Alternate Captain of the Port of Baltimore. John was awarded the Coast Guard’s Meritorious Service Medal for his courageous efforts in rescuing 8 crewman and the Thordis Presthus in the midst of fire and storm. He also received the U.S. Coast Guard Unit Commendation, and Achievement Medal. After retiring from the Coast Guard, John served as the Chairman of the Board of Selectman in Hope, Maine for 7 years. He ran Blanchard Bed & Breakfast with his wife, Betty for many years. John is survived by his wife Betty; children: Jennifer, Susan, Linda and Karen; and grandchildren: Wesley, Andrew, Chelsea, Zachary, John, Hermione, and Thomas. In addition to being a consummate sailor, John was a devoted husband, proud father and grandfather, exceptional cabinetmaker, aspiring model airplane flier, and Muffin Man. He loved animals and was known for his sense of humor, his infectious smile, his easy laugh, and his kind and gentle spirit. John passed away November 30th in his home, surrounded by his family. His strength of character and kindness touched many lives. He will be sorely missed.