Eugene Wise Blanchard, known to all as Gene, a distinguished veteran, devoted husband, and cherished father, passed away on September 3, 2024, at the age of 98. Born in Detroit on April 2, 1926, Gene was the eldest son of Manning Blanchard and Marguerite Wise Blanchard.

Gene’s commitment to service began with his time in the United States Army, where he served as a bandsman on the French horn from 1944 to 1946. During his service, he earned both the Victory Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.

In 1950, Gene married Roselyn Piersante, and together they enjoyed 73 years of marriage filled with love and adventure. They shared a deep passion for travel, philanthropy, and the fine arts, including the Detroit Opera and Detroit Symphony Orchestra. Gene also loved to spend his leisure time skiing, taking and developing photos in his darkroom, exploring literature, and supporting his favorite sports teams (Go Detroit!). His great pride was in his life long business, built from scratch, Abrasive Specialty Tool Company.

Gene’s dedication to community continued into his later years with the US Power Squadrons, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving maritime safety and enjoyment, where he was a member since 1971. He was awarded their 50-Year Membership Award in 2021 and later honored with a Lifetime Membership Award. Gene and Rho also had a lifelong love of sailing and were proud members of the Bayview Yacht Club and Great Lakes Yacht Club, where they treated many friends and family to sailing adventures on their Islander 37 Sloop sailboat. After retiring Gene volunteered a number of years in the machine works of the Yankee Air Museum.

Gene is survived by his brother John Blanchard; his two daughters, Marguerite(Bill) and Nancy(Peter) and their husbands; four granddaughters; five great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family and friends whom he considered family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Rho, his oldest daughter Carmelina, his grandson Will, his brothers Bob and Tom.

Gene’s remarkable life was a testament to his unwavering dedication, kindness, and love. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Visitation for Gene will be held on Wednesday, September 11th, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of his Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 4300 Walnut Lake Rd., West Bloomfield. He will be laid to rest in Pine Lake Cemetery, West Bloomfield Twp.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution may be made to the University of Nebraska: Carmen Blanchard Cancer Fund #01066480, P.O. Box 82555, Lincoln, NE 68501-2555.