It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Francis Blanchard, on March 20th 2017. In his 86th year, Francis fought a long, brave battle with Vascular Dementia. He was the beloved husband of 56 years to Bertha Blanchard (nee DesRoches), father of Michelle Blanchard (Joe McKenna) and Nicole Blanchard. Pépé to Justin, Jérémie and Joelle. Son of J. Henri and Ursule Blanchard and brother to Bernadette, Beatrice, Louise, Rose, Alfred, Elmer and Wilmer with whom he is now reunited. Francis had a kind heart and a gentle soul and he put his family first. During his 35-year teaching career, he sought out all his students’ potential and always believed in each and every one of them. He was proud of his Acadian culture and language and spent much of his time working to re-establish a network of French first language schools on PEI. Francis held a B.Ed. from Université Sainte-Anne and M.Ed. from the University of Ottawa. In 2004, he received an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree from UPEI for his extensive work with PEI’s Acadian and francophone community. His countless hours of dedicated leadership and volunteerism earned him l’Ordre du Mérite Acadien and his proudest accomplishment, Chevalier des palmes académiques, a knighthood bestowed on him by France. Resting at Belvedere Funeral Home. As per the family’s wishes, there will be no visitation or public service. A celebration of Francis’s life will be held at a later date. No flowers please. Donations to the Alzheimer’s Society of PEI in Francis’s name would be appreciated. On t’aime beaucoup Papa. Tu seras toujours dans nos coeurs. xo www.belvederefh.com

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