Henry R. Blanchett Jr., 83

Mar 3, 2020

Henry R. Blanchett Jr., 83, of Dartmouth and New Bedford, died Sunday Feb 23, 2020 at Brandon Woods of Dartmouth. He was the husband of Joan Wilcox Blanchett.

Son of the late Henry R. Blanchett Sr. and the late Julia (Eldredge) Blanchett, he was born in Boston and lived in this area much of his life. Drafted into the U.S. Army he served in Alaska from 1959-1961. Henry spent 33 years as a cross county truck driver starting with Hemingway Transport and finishing his driving career with Munson Transportation in Monmouth, Illinois.

Henry enjoyed bringing little trinkets home to his wife and daughters after every trip from his places of travel. He was recognized for his safe driving record at the end of his driving career. He was a long time member of the Teamsters Union local 59. Henry was also a retired state employee.

A ham radio operator, his call signal was W1GYL and he was a long time member of the S.E. Mass. Amateur Ham Radio Association, serving as secretary and treasurer throughout the years. He enjoyed Sunday morning coffee at the club and the Thursday night fox hunt. He made many lifelong friends through the radio club.

In addition to his wife he is survived by daughters Nadine Blanchett (Michael Pendergast), Betty Lopes (Fred), Renee Furtado (Tim), a sister Joanne Grinnell of Falmouth, and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will take place in the Wilson Chapel, 479 County St. New Bedford on Thursday, March 5 from 4 - 7 p.m. His graveside service will be on Friday, March 6 at 10 a.m. in Rural Cemetery, Dartmouth and Oak St. New Bedford. All are asked to meet at the main gate.