Clarence E. Blanchette

Clarence E. Blanchette, 89, beloved husband of Bernice (Gray) Blanchette, passed away on Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at Avery Heights-Hartford. Clarence was born in Plaisted, Maine on September 7, 1933 and a son of the late Thaddie and Melissa (Laferriere) Blanchette. He was raised in Maine and moved to Bristol in 1950. Was a longtime member of St. Ann Church and retired from Pratt & Whitney Aircraft after 40 years of service. In addition to his wife of 70 years, Clarence is survived by two brothers: Ernest Blanchette of Florida, Maurice Blanchette and wife, Diane of Maine; a sister: Patricia Bouchard and husband, Paul of Southington; Godson Steve Carrier of Windsor Locks and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son Clarence “Danny” Blanchette and wife, Joanne, and a brother: Richard Blanchette. Clarence was a quiet reserved man who understood why we have two ears and only one mouth, which made him a good listener. Yet, that did not hold back his hearty laugh with tears when cherishing time with his family across varied generations. And his hands served him well in his employment, in pursuing interests such as his fascination with cars and maintaining his own in tip top shape, working the grounds to present his yard in impeccable condition, shuffling and dealing cards in a game with family, casting a line to catch fish, clasping his hands in prayer, and most importantly, helping anyone in need. He was a dutiful provider as a reliable employee who never missed a day of work. He loved the outdoors and sorely missed his hometown. You could take Clarence out of Maine, but you could not take Maine out of his heart. Maine was his being home and symbolic of the people with whom he was raised and the woman who was his heart for 70 years. Now from his heavenly home, he looks fondly on all who grieve his earthly departure. 

Family and friends are invited to MEET directly at St. Ann Church, The Parish of St. Francis de Sales Parish at 215 West Street, Bristol on Monday morning, March 13, 2023 at 10 AM to attend a Mass of Christian Burial and are also invited to attend the committal service immediately following in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Bristol. There are no calling hours. Funk Funeral Home, 35 Bellevue Avenue, Bristol has the honor of serving the Blanchette family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Clarence’s name to one of the following charities: Hope House Ministries at www.hhm.org or the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement at www.atonementfriars.org. Please visit Clarence’s memorial website at www.FunkFuneralHome.com

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