Obituary of Nicholas V. Blanchard

Nicholas V. Blanchard, 88, of Travis, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2020. He was the beloved husband of the late Dorothy; loving father of Barry, Karen Blanchard-Salmon, Mark, Nora Cusimano, Kevin, and Nicholas; cherished grandfather of 11. He was the youngest of eight and he was predeceased by his seven brothers. Mr. Blanchard was born and raised in Mariners Harbor, and graduated from McKee High School. After high school, he enlisted and proudly served in the U.S. Navy for four years, serving on the USS Corry DD -817, stationed in the North Atlantic. Nicholas was employed for 41 years on the Staten Island Ferry as a Stationary Engineer/Marine Oiler and was a volunteer Firefighter for 57 years for the Oceanic Volunteer Fire Company. He also was a member of the American Legion Goldstar Post and served as the Grand Marshall in the Travis 4th of July Parade in 2005. Nick was proud to serve his home community of Travis for over 60 years. He was proficient in many trades who could fix anything. Nick is described as having a great sense of humor who could turn a phrase with his Irish wit! In lieu of flowers, donations in Nicholas' memory may be made to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Funeral from the Matthew Funeral Home, Inc., 2508 Victory Boulevard, on Saturday, departing at 8:45 am. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Anthony of Padua R.C. Church at 9:30 am. Interment to follow in St. Peter's Cemetery. Family and friends may visit on Friday from 5:00 to 9:00 pm.