Raymond J. Blanchard, age 94 of Durand, died Saturday, June 17, 2023 at Dove-West Health Care in Eau Claire with his family by his side.

Ray was born on August 26, 1928 in Lowell, MA. He received his BA in biology with a minor in education at Marrist College in Poughkeepsie, NY. While teaching he earned his MA in biology from Fordham University in New York City. Ray received several National Science Foundation grants to study science. As a result of this, he was certified to teach all high school science.

Ray married Rosemarie Wolf and settled in Pittsburgh, PA. Ray taught earth and space science and physics most of his career.

When Ray retired, he and Rosemarie moved to Durand. Together, they travelled in their RV working for Habitat for Humanity. At home, Ray enjoyed wood working, wood carving and crossword puzzles. On Fridays, Ray helped setup for Mass at Chippewa Valley Care Center and lead the daily Rosary at The Homeplace.

Ray is survived by his nieces Susan (Tim Bauer) Wolf of Eau Claire and Mary (Craig) Johanns of Eagan, nephews; William M. (Kandace) Wolf of Lakewood, WA and Karl (Jess) Wolf of Minneapolis, several great nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife, Rosemarie and siblings.

Ray’s family would like to thank the staff of The Homeplace in Durand for their loving care of Ray.

Funeral Mass will be 11:00AM Thursday, June 22, 2023 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Durand with Rev. Emmanuel Asamoah-Bekoe officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery at a later date. Visitation will be from 10:00AM until the time of services at the church on Thursday.

Memorials may be made in Ray’s name to St. Mary’s Assumption Catholic School.

Rhiel Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Durand, is serving the family.

Condolences

1. Eugene Joseph Blanchard Jr. December 28, 2023, at 6:05pm

   I just learned about Uncle Ray's passing. Unfortunately, I only met Uncle Ray a half dozen times in my life but each one was a spark of joy. My father Eugene (Chuck) and Ray were so similar in personality - both positive happy individuals with a connection that spanned time and distance. A man dies 3 times: the first is with his last breath, the second when he is buried and we say good-bye. The third is when his name is spoken for the last time. Uncle Ray was a good man and his name will be spoken forever.

2. Robert Robichaud July 11, 2023, at 4:54pm

   Sorry to hear of the passing of Uncle Raymond. Franceline, my mother, was his sister.

3. Mona [Blanchard] Longley July 11, 2023, at 4:23pm

   Uncle Ray was my father's half brother [Emil Blanchard]. We visited him in Poughkeepsie, NY where he taught school for many years. His visits to our home were always a fun time, especially when he did card tricks and fun math problems. Sadly missed by many nieces & nephews.

4. Donna Blanchard Hreys July 11, 2023, at 3:43pm

   my dearest Raymond, I wish I'd known that you had passed. I would have been there for your service. Your Blanchard side sends you love. Now you are happy with your beloved, brothers and sisters. xxooxx Donna

5. John and Judy Parr June 20, 2023, at 7:19am

   Our Sympathy is with you all!

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