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RENE JOSEPH GILLES BLANCHARD
Born: Nov 17, 1927
Date of Passing: Jun 17, 2018
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryRENE JOSEPH GILLES BLANCHARD November 17, 1927- June 17, 2018 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Rene Blanchard, Duncan, BC. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife Mary Blanchard, children, Mark Blanchard (Gail), Michelle Meade (Allan), Cheryl Condy (Doug) and David Condy; his grandchildren, Craig, Lisa, Brett and Laura, and great-grandchildren, Brayden, Mallory, Madelyn and Morgan, as well as his nephews and nieces. Rene, born in Winnipeg, completed his formal education at St. Paul's High School and joined the family business as the Pipe Organ distributor/tuner for Casavant Freres covering N.W. Ontario, Manitoba and Saskatchewan. On one of these trips he met Laura Lappa whom he married, settled in Winnipeg and had four children. In 1969, their dream of owning a cottage on Lake of the Woods came true. Tragically that summer a horrific car accident claimed the life of his wife and two of his children (Laurie and Yvonne). With the help of his family and friends Rene found the strength to move on. He fell in love with Mary Condy (Czernicki), they married in 1972 and spent the next 46 years together first in Winnipeg, before retiring to beautiful property outside of CobbleHill, BC. Between their fishing, gardening, camping and time with friends and family, their life was full. Their final move to a condo in Duncan allowed them more time to enjoy the activities on the island. Rene never stopped learning. He was a chef, musician, debater and philosopher. He enjoyed researching techniques for his next food creation; he loved challenging discussions and never shied away from a debate. He loved to tease and his laugher filled the room. In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place and no service will be held. The family wishes to thank the staff at Cairnsmore Place in Duncan BC for their compassion and care of Dad during his final months.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 07, 2018
Condolences & Memories (3 entries)
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So sorry to hear of Mr. Blanchard's passing. Our families were always such great friends. I knew him all my life and can still hear his great laugh as he debated with my dad. God bless you all. Cathy - Posted by: Catherine (Cathy) Minvielle (Friend) on: Aug 12, 2018
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I grew up with Mark and Michelle, just down the street from their home. As children Mark, myself and others played outside together. I as well remember the day of the tragic car accident and how saddened I was that our neighbour and her sweet girls were gone. I was amazed by the strength of Mr. Blanchard and Michelle and Mark during and after that time. I attended a private school and would ride some mornings with Michelle and Mr. Blanchard to the school. I remember going into the house and Mr. Blanchard would be finishing breakfast dishes. He told me with a twinkle in his eye he didn't dry them because it was more sanitary to let them air dry in the dish drainer. I still do that. I have not seen Mr. Blanchard in many years. When I drive down Thorndale Avenue now, I remember the Blanchards and other families that, at that time, made up our wonderful neighbourhood. Thinking of you Mark and Michelle, and your Dad, and the extended family. - Posted by: Sharon Bauman (Neighbour from Thorndale Ave. in St. Vital, Winnipeg) on: Jul 12, 2018
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I remember Mr. Blanchard very well although it's been more than 35 years since I've seen him. By his picture he sure didn't change much. The Blanchard family were great neighbours and wonderful folks. Although I was closest with Mark, I knew them all well in the day. The car accident in 1969 that took Mr. Blanchard's first wife and his two young daughters was a tragedy that I'll never forget. I'm sure it left its scars on Mr. Blanchard, Mark and Michelle but it is nice to see that the family was able to pick up the pieces and resume a normal life. I can't imagine how tough that must've been. From the Head Family, please accept our condolences on the loss of a fine man. - Posted by: Bill Head (Friend and Former Neighbour on Thorndale in St. Vital) on: Jul 08, 2018