White River Jct., VT - Henry Gile Blanchard Jr., 97. died unexpectedly, at home in White River Jct., VT on March 1 ^st , 2023.

He was born December 3, 1925, in Hanover, NH a son of Henry G. and Grace (Carter) Blanchard. Following his graduation from Hartford High School, Henry enlisted in the US Marine Corps at age 17 to serve in World War II. During the war he served in the Pacific Theatre and was stationed in Guam for much of the war. He was honorably discharged in 1946 as a Corporal and returned home to marry his sweetheart, Jane Henderson. They made their home in White River Jct., VT where they raised their four children and were married for sixty-five years until her death in 2011. Henry later served in the Army Reserves from 1956 until 1959. After his honorable discharge from the USMC, Henry worked for a time as a mechanic at Roger's Garage in Hanover, NH before beginning his nearly thirty-year career with the US Post Office, retiring as an Injury Compensation Specialist in 1986.

Henry was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2571 and the American Legion, both in White River Jct. as well as the Hartford Elks and was a lifetime member of the Hartford Rod and Gun Club. He enjoyed reading, especially Reader's Digest and books on military history, gardening, and also enjoyed hunting with family and friends. Above all, Henry was a cherished family man, who was deeply loved.

He was predeceased by his wife, Jane, in 2011, a son, Robert "Rob" in 2000; two brothers, Richard and Jack, and a sister, Gloria.

He is survived by his children, Rick Blanchard (Rachel) of West Glover, VT, Jill McKay (Daniel) of Centerville, MA; and Cindy Potter (Chris) of White River Jct.; grandchildren, Kristopher, Kevin, Jaci, Kali, Whitni, Linsi, Thomas and Cassie; fourteen great-grandchildren; a sister, Melva, and several nieces and nephews.

A private service will be held at the convenience of the family with burial with his wife and son in the Mt. Olivet Cemetery in White River Jct.

Condolences to Henry's family may be made in an online guestbook at knightfuneralhomes.com.

Contributions in his memory may be made to Special Olympics Vermont, 16 Gregory Dr #2, South Burlington, VT 05403