1927 – 2013

LEWISTON — Roger D. Blanchette, 85, of Lewiston passed away Saturday at Marshwood Nursing Care Center surrounded by his family.

He was born in Lewiston on Aug. 4, 1927, a son of Leopold and Yvonne (Gosselin) Blanchette.

He grew up in the Lewiston area and attended Lewiston schools.

Roger enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1945 and served during World War II until his discharge in 1947.

On June 4, 1949, he married Theresa St. Onge at Saints Peter and Paul Church in Lewiston, and they began a family together.

For more than 30 years, Roger worked in transportation as a truck driver for Allied Van Lines.

He was a life member of the American Legion and a member of the VFW. He will always be remembered for his love of watching sports, especially the Maineiacs, Bruins and Red Sox as well as playing cards.

He is survived by his five children, Richard and his wife, Jean, of Sabattus, Donald of Lewiston, Michael and his wife, Carlene, of Lewiston, Diane Giguere of Lewiston, and Suzanne Clark and her companion, Garry, of Lewiston. He also leaves behind two brothers, Robert and Marcel of Lewiston; two sisters, Jeannine Robitaille of Lewiston and Pauline DeSanctis of Auburn; 12 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandchild; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his loving wife of 57 years, Theresa; a son-in-law, Donald Giguere; and two infant sons.

The family wishes to offer their sincere thanks and gratitude to the entire staff of Marshwood Nursing Care Center and Beacon Hospice for their dedication and devotion towards Roger.

Family and friends are invited to share thoughts and memories of Roger through his online guest book at www.thefortingrouplewiston.com.