Roland J. Blanchette

Southington- Roland J. Blanchette, 76, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Friday, Dec. 26, 2008.

Born May 29, 1932 in Frenchville, ME to the late Arthur and Cecile (Marquis) Blanchette.

He leaves his beloved wife of 55 years, Rolande (Fongemie) Blanchette.

Roland was employed at Marlin Rockwell/TRW of Plainville for 38 years and as a self-employed home improvement contractor, owner of RJB Aluminum Service and a Gutter-Helmet franchisee.

In addition to his wife, he leaves to miss and remember him, his 5 daughters,

Barbara and her husband Ron Wall of Colchester, Susan and her husband John Lamb of Franklin, NC, Karen Kenny of Bloomfield, Janet and her husband Mark Dlugoszewski of Southington, Tammy and her husband Tom Alfieri of Plantsville, along with 8 cherished grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

He also leaves 2 brothers, Leo James and Robert Blanchette of Southington, 3 sisters, Lucille Martin, Bernadette Galayda of Southington and Gail Ford of Bristol. He was predeceased by his brother Clifford, his sister Rolande Morin and Artheline Blanchette.

His joys in life were traveling with his wife and their winter home in Sarasota, FL, his children, and especially his grandchildren who affectionately called him “Pepere”. Roland was a Nascar enthusiast, competed in horseshoe leagues in CT and FL, and bowling. He could often be found in his workshop, building wooden projects, especially birdhouses for family and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday January 3, 2009 at 11 a.m. at St. Thomas Church 99 Bristol St. Burial will be at St. Thomas Cemetery. Calling hours will be private. DellaVecchia Funeral Home, 211 N. Main St. is in charge of arrangements.

Memorial donations may be made in his name to Victory Junction Gang Camp, 4500 Adam’s Way, Randleman, NC 27317. www.victoryjunction.org

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