BLANCHETTE: It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Rodolphe "Rudy" Blanchette, beloved husband of Helen Blanchette, on Saturday, June 14, 2014 at the age of 95 years. Rudy Blanchette was born in Edam, Saskatchewan and grew up on a farm near Vawn with his parents and fourteen siblings. He learned farming skills from his Dad, Uncle John and his older brothers. During World War II, he trained in Dundurn but was sent home very ill - thus sparing him the wrath of war. On November 16, 1943 he married Helen St. Marie. They raised seven children on the original homestead. He became a successful farmer because of hard work, self-taught business skills and good decisions. Rudy also relied on the First Nations Cochin and Saulteuax area men to help with the farm. He had a great respect for the First Nations people, especially Francis Knight, who after five years of assisting him with the farm, became a Chief. Rudy also served on many community boards and organizations - school, Credit Union, Knights of Columbus, and Pioneer Association. His family always came first and was a great part of his life. There was endless hours spend at hockey rinks, ball diamonds, and school events. He also took time to build a rink in the backyard every year. He taught his children independence, honesty, and integrity. Sundays were a day of rest and going to Mass. His faith was a huge part of his life and he always believed that whatever one gave away it would always come back tenfold. In 1975, he and Helen moved to Abbott Avenue in North Battleford to enjoy retirement. A motorhome was purchased and they spent many happy times travelling, camping, and fishing. In the winter months it was cross-country skiing, dancing, and playing cards with friends. Some of his favourite things were baseball, hockey, John Deer equipment, Ford vehicles, and playing crib. In 1998, on Rudy's 80th birthday, another move was made to Wren Court - an adult living residence which allowed for less yard work and more relaxation for him and Helen. There was one more move in his future and that was to Harwood Manor in 2012. He and Helen would spend their last years together with caring staff to care for them and keep them company. They say a Father's love is reflected in the eyes of his children and even though his children weep, they know that he is surrounded by a shroud of peace, in a peaceful place, which gives them comfort for their loss. Rudy will be sadly missed by his wife of over 70 years, Helen; His Children: Hazel Blanchette, Garry (Nancy) Blanchette, Claudette (Godfrey) Gregoire, Robert (Debbie) Blanchette, Sylvia Blanchette (Arnie Gess), Darlene Blanchette (Ron Christie), Lee (Shelly) Blanchette; His grandchildren: LeeAnn Good, Kim Boutin, Shelley Ann Blanchette, Kevin (Angela) Blanchette, Leonard (Naomi) Gregoire, Chantal (Martin) Windus, Ashley (Josh) Kehler, Donald (Martina) Johnson, Amanda Ingram (Russ Dodd), Haley Ingram (Robert Mitchell), Renee (Michael) Rousseau, Kiley (Nicole) Blanchette, Kimberley Blanchette (Tyrell Church); His Great-Grandchildren: Nicole Good, Laney, Allison, and Erica Blanchette, Alex Gregoire, Paige Windus, Rylan and Payton Kehler, Courtney, Carter, and Cassandra Johnson, Hunter and Hudson Rousseau, Kinsley Blanchette, and Connor Church. He is predeceased by: His brothers and sisters: Arthur, Louis, Armand, Eugene, Annette, Edmond, Jean, Marie Jeanne, Aime, Albert, Alfred, Albertine, Irma, and Henri. His grandsons: Jason Blanchette and Jordon Ingram. Mass of Christian Burial was held on Thursday, June 19, 2014 from St. Joseph Calasanctius Roman Catholic Church with Reverend Father Anthony Afangide, M.S.P. and Father Nestor Gregoire, O.M.I. celebrating. Interment took place at the City of North Battleford Cemetery. If friends so desire, donations in Rudy's memory may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Saskatchewan. The family has placed their trust with Kristeen Thiessen of Sallows & McDonald - Wilson and Zehner Funeral Home. (306) 445-2418.
