Paul Emile Blanchard Jr.

CHICOPEE- Paul Emile Blanchard Jr, 67, passed away at his home on Saturday, August 23, 2014. He was born in Holyoke on March 25, 1947 a son of the late Paul and Dorothy (Bonafilia) Blanchard and was educated in Chicopee schools. Paul then joined the U.S. Navy and served honorably during the Vietnam War and received the Republic of Vietnam Service Medal w/three Bronze Stars, The Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal w/device and the National Defense Service Medal. After his transfer to the US Navy Reserve, Paul began his truck driving career with Suburban Propane. He then worked with Osterman Propane and T. Q. Logistics retiring in 2013 after 40 years of service primarily in the fuel delivery field. He was a longstanding member of the Teamsters Local # 404. Paul enjoyed golfing and fishing with friends and making his grandchildren laugh with his funny faces. He is survived by his longtime friend and loving wife of 20 years, Judy E. Blanchard of Chicopee; his son, Paul J. Blanchard and his wife Bethany of RI; his step son, Eric Pease and his wife Marci of Enfield, CT; his daughter, Angelique Broussard and her husband James of Springfield. He will be missed by his 4 grandchildren, Kaylie Pease, Emily Pease, Cameron Blanchard and Noah Blanchard. He also leaves a brother and two sisters as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. Visiting hours will be held Wednesday, August 27, 2014 from 4-7 PM at Messier Funeral Home, 1944 Northampton St., Holyoke, MA 01040. A funeral home service will begin at 11AM on Thursday, August 28, 2014 and be followed by the burial with military honor in the Chapel of the Massachusetts Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, 1390 Main St., Agawam. If friends desire, memorial donation in Pauls’ name can be made to the DAV, Statehouse Room #546, Boston, MA 02133. Please visit www.messierfuneralhome.com for more details.