GREENFIELD
Thomas G. Blanchard, 85, of Greenfield, passed away on September 26, 2024, surrounded by his family. Born on October 13, 1938, in East Orange, New Jersey, to the late Ralph Blanchard and Althea (Davis) Blanchard-Sigman, Tom was raised in Indiana, where he lived and worked throughout his life.
A graduate of Lawrence Central High School, Tom served in the Indiana National Guard before beginning a long career as an electrician with Western Electric in Indianapolis. In 1984, he moved to AT&T Technologies in Kansas City and retired from Western Electric/AT&T in 1990 as a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). Afterward, Tom continued his career as an electrician at International Truck and Engine, where he also served as the United Auto Workers (UAW) Training Coordinator for five years before retiring in 2005.
Tom was an avid golfer, holding the “Blanchard Family Record” for the longest putt – an impressive 63 feet and 4 inches. Tom cherished spending time with family, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was a longtime volunteer for the Hancock County Democratic Party, served as an officer on the St. Michael’s School Board, and was a coach for Greenfield Boys Club Baseball.
After retirement, Tom and his beloved wife, Elsie, traveled extensively throughout Europe, visiting France, Germany, Italy, Great Britain, Greece, and Turkey. Hawaii held a special place in his heart, and Tom earned a trip there for Elsie and himself due to his perfect attendance at Western Electric.
Known for his friendly, outgoing personality, Tom lived life to the fullest. He enjoyed backyard gatherings, sharing beers, lunches with cousins, and breakfast with friends. He was always eager to learn new things. Above all, Tom was a devoted husband and caregiver to Elsie until her passing in 2017.
Tom is survived by his four children: sons Edward (Connie) Blanchard, Sam Blanchard, Russell (Cynthia) Blanchard, and daughter Kelly (Raymond) Modglin. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Isabella Blanchard, Chance Blanchard, David (Ashley) Hobbs, Ryan (Josie) Hobbs, Nathaniel Thomas Blanchard, Brandon Perkins, Ian Modglin, Connor Modglin, Olivia Modglin, Sean Modglin, Helen Helfer, James Helfer, Ruthie Helfer, and Claire Helfer; nine great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph Blanchard and Althea Davis-Blanchard; his stepfather, Russell Sigman; his wife, Elsie (Leary) Blanchard; his brothers, James and Robert; and his sister, Joyce (Gene) Baker.
Visitation to honor Tom’s life will be held from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at Stillinger Family Funeral Home, 1780 W. Main Street, Greenfield, Indiana 46140. A Mass to celebrate his life will take place at 10:00 AM on Friday, October 4, 2024, at St. Michael Catholic Church, 515 Jefferson Blvd, Greenfield, Indiana, with burial to follow at Park Cemetery, Greenfield.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the donor’s favorite charity.
Online memories and condolences may be shared at www.stillingerfamily.com.
