Michael Blanchette

Woonsocket - Michael Blanchette, 77, passed away peacefully Monday, February 16, 2026 at the Providence VA Medical Center. He was the husband of the late Donna Blanchette and the late Cecelia Blanchette.

Born in Woonsocket, RI he was the son of the late Edward and Dorothy Blanchette. Michael served in the United States Army with the 1st Battalion, 92nd Field Artillery during the Vietnam War. In recognition of his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, Sharpshooter Badge, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal with two Overseas Service Bars. He also went on to serve as Commander of AMVETS Post 12.

Mike had a passion for bass fishing and was especially proud of his time as President of the Blackstone Valley Bassmasters. During his tenure, he helped lead the “Kids Fishing for Kids” tournaments in support of A Wish Come True, raising more than $50,000 over five years to benefit children and families in need.

He loved his family deeply and cherished every moment spent with them. An avid outdoorsman, he went fishing as often as he could, finding peace on the water and never missing a chance to share a good laugh. He had a great sense of humor and was, without a doubt, a handsome son of a gun - and he would’ve insisted we remind everyone of that.

He is survived by his brother David (Jan) Blanchette, his daughter, Tracie (Mark) Peloquin, his stepdaughter Christina Malmquist, stepson John (Donna) Malmquist. He is also survived by his grandchildren Jason Peloquin, Jordan (Jeff) Walsh, Danielle and Isabelle Galstian, and Ashley and John Malmquist.

A Funeral Home Service will held on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at 4 PM in the S. DiPardo Memorial Chapel Funeral Home 1583 Diamond Hill Rd Woonsocket, RI 02895. Relatives and friends are invited; calling hours are from 2-4 PM prior to the service.

A funeral procession will be leaving from the Funeral Home at 10 AM on Monday, March 9, 2026 for a Committal Service with Military Honors at 11:30 AM in the RI Veterans Memorial Cemetery 301 South County Trail Exeter, RI 02822.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Operation Stand Down RI.

https://osdri.charityproud.org/Donate

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