John Douglas Blanchard

Born September 7, 1928, John was the son of the late William ‘Bill’ and Katie (MacNeil) Blanchard.

Like his father and grandfather before him, John was a third generation General Foreman of the Blast Furnace at Sydney Steel and was known for his strong work ethic and tireless commitment to Sydney Steel until his retirement in 1989.

John’s greatest accomplishments in life were his children. John found his main purpose ‘happiness in life’ of being a grandfather to his five grandchildren who meant the world to him.

A kind, gentle man, everyone who met him loved him. He was a man who always put his family first and always kept a positive attitude and strong faith.

Besides his parents he was predeceased by his brothers Bill, Joe, Tommy and Eddie and brothers-in-law John Dawson and Murray Rose.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Theresa (McGrady); sons John, Kirk, Kelly (Mary Lynn) and daughter Wendy (Danny) MacDonald, all of Sydney. He is also survived by his beautiful grandchildren Maria, Rhiannon, Brooklyn, Jax his best friend and grandson Nolan. Also by sisters Thelma (Charlie) Yakimchuk, Pearl Dawson, Theresa (Bill) Vanechek, Louise (Joe) Prestara, Mary Rose and by many nieces and nephews.

Special thanks to the unit of 4B of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital; Dr. Rachel Abel for her outstanding care and dedication. To John’s son-in-law Danny, for your tireless commitment, care and love you showed during John’s life and illness.

There will be no visitation for the late Mr. Blanchard. A funeral mass will be celebrated on Thursday, March 30 at 11 am at St. Theresa’s Church with Fr. Dennis Lamey officiating.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.twcurry.com

“A man of steel doesn’t take a break until the job is done.”