Published in the September 18, 2015 edition

Blanchard-obit-webPORT RICHEY, FL — Edward A. Blanchard, 59, recently of Port Richey, Fl, and formerly of Melrose, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, September 5.

Edward was born in Biddeford, Maine on September 29, 1955, one of two children of the late Arthur H. and Lauraine M. (Desjardins) Blanchard. He was raised in Melrose where he graduated from Melrose High School, Class of 1973. Over the years, he worked for several garages and auto body shops as a mechanic, and handyman.

As a young man, Ed loved fishing, and playing hockey on the pond at Breakheart Reservation in Saugus. He also loved spending time with his family at “the Camp” in Winthrop, Maine. He was a Boston sports fan and especially loved watching the Bruins play at the old Garden.

Eddie was laid back with an easy going outlook on life. He always enjoyed a conversation with anyone he ever met, and loved telling jokes, including some he pulled on his family. Throughout his life, he was an avid coin collector, enjoyed gardening, and working on his boat.

He loved his Chevy Corvette, but most of all cherished his family.

Eddie was a lovable, kind man who endeared himself to his friends and family with his generous spirit and fun loving nature. His family will always remember him stretched out in his blue jeans, and falling asleep wherever he was accompanied by the snoring that soon followed.

He was the devoted brother of Anne B. Bartlett of Port Richey, FL. He was the loving uncle of Kirk Welch and his wife Kelli of New Port Richey, FL, and Erica Parker and her fiancé Gene of Port Richey, FL. He was the longtime companion and best friend of Patricia Damory-Brown of Revere. He is also survived by many loving cousins, two great-nieces, six great-nephews, and friends.

Relatives and friends gathered in honor and remembrance of Ed’s life during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Thursday, Sept. 10, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Gifts in memory of Ed may be made to the Melrose Veteran Relief Fund, c/o Veterans Services, 562 Main St., Melrose, MA 02176.

For online tribute, directions, or to share a memory visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com