Normand A. Blanchette, 86 of Lakeville, MA died July 31st in Brockton, MA after a period of failing health. Born March 10th, 1924 in Woonsocket, RI, he was the son of the late Eugene Blanchette and Florida L’Esperance and brother of the late Constance Lechman and the Edward Blanchette.
A decorated WWII army veteran of the Pacific Theater Campaign, he served in New Guinea and participated in the Invasion of Luzon in the Philippines. Owner of a Rhode Island industrial catering business for many years, he later worked to retirement as Supervisor of Housekeeping at Goddard Memorial Hospital, in Stoughton, MA. His true identity was that of “Ziggy Blaine” renowned singer and jazz trumpeter, performing in clubs and musical venues in Rhode Island and Massachusetts for decades. Family, friends and associates most fondly remember him for his musical talent, irreverent sense of humor and eternal optimism.
He is survived by his wife Barbara (Clonan) Blanchette, loyal companion of 57 years, son Eugene Blanchette and wife Maria, daughter Geena Clonan and husband Peter Schrobenhauser. He was pre-deceased by his daughter Sandra Allaire and his son Richard Blanchette. He also leaves son Raymond Blanchette and daughters, Susan Jaroz and Carol Richer, fifteen grandchildren, numerous great grand children, niece Jean Marie Ryan and nephews Michael and David Blanchette and their families. The family wishes to extend sincere thanks to the entire staff at Braemoor Nursing Home for their kindness and superb care.
A public graveside service will be held on Friday, August 6 at Holy Family Cemetery, Rockland MA, at 11:30am. Charitable gifts can be made to Save The Music Foundation: http://vh1savethemusic.com/give-tribute