Gilles O. Blanchard

February 17, 1940 - November 25, 2014

DERBY, VT — Mr. Gilles O. Blanchard, 74, died at his home in Derby, Vt., on Tuesday evening, Nov. 25, 2014. He was born in Bonsecours, Qué., on Feb. 17, 1940, one of 19 children to the late Amedée and Aurore (Plante) Blanchard. In his younger days, Gilles owned and operated a farm in Canaan. He sold it when he was in his mid-20s and then began a career working for himself and others as a logger with Blanchard Trucking. He retired early due to injuries sustained from his work. Gilles was a true lover of the outdoors. He had a passion for wildlife of all kinds and loved to feed the deer, bear and moose around his home. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. Gilles also loved to spend time with his grandchildren, and he had enjoyed many winters in Florida. He was a former member of the Knights of Columbus. He is survived by his three children, Michael Blanchard and wife Valerie of Andover, Mass., Eric Blanchard of Derby, Vt., and Colette Grenier and husband Scott of So. Berwick, Me.; five grandchildren, Nicole & Seraphina Blanchard, and Andrew, Ashley & Ronnie Grenier; as well as numerous siblings, nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his companion of the last several years, Louisette Riendeau of Coaticook, Que. Gilles is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nicole (Beloin) Blanchard. Calling hours will be at the Jenkins & Newman Funeral Home in Colebrook, NH, on Thursday, Dec. 4, from 4 to 7 p.m. A graveside committal service will take place in the spring at St. Brendan’s Cemetery in Colebrook, of which notice will be given. Expressions of sympathy in memory of Mr. Blanchard may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Condolences may be offered to the family on-line by going to www.jenkinsnewman.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Jenkins & Newman Funeral Home, Colebrook, NH.