WEST ENFIELD – James “Jim” R. Blanch, born July 3, 1922, was taken by his Lord May 2, 2013.
James had always been a resident of West Enfield and attended Howland High School. During the depression he joined Civil Conservation Corps, operated by the U.S. Army during high school and received a diploma under their supervision. He later enlisted in the Army and fought in World War II before being honorably discharged December 1945. He was a long time member of Veterans of Foreign Wars and a member of American Legion. After the war, he attended Husson College and received an associate degree in business. James was an ironworker in Local No. 496 for about 25 years. Upon his retirement, he started his own business jacking up camps and putting foundations under existing buildings. His last foundation was for his daughter’s home at the age of 72. He was actively involved in town government and served as a selectman for many years. He truly was devoted to this community and did his best to make it a good place to live.
James was predeceased by his wife of 52 years, Phyllis (Lancaster); and son, Kenneth. He is survived by his daughters, Laura and David Cook and Judy and William Murphy; grandchildren, Angela Cook, Brian Murphy and Matthew and Jamie Murphy. He also leaves with regret, the treasures of his last years, his great-grandchildren, Daniel and William “Liam” Murphy and Zachary Lewin. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Durward and Violet Lancaster of Ohio; sister-in-law, Karolyn Suter; and nieces and nephews, Danny and Kellie Lancaster, David and Connie Lancaster, Becky Lancaster and Kris and Scott Albrecht and their respective families.
Friends may call 1 p.m. until time of service at 2 p.m. Saturday, at Clay Funeral Home, 7 Lee Road, Lincoln. The Rev. Jack Hyland and the Rev. Jonathan Ray will officiate. Interment will be at West Enfield Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to donate in his memory to his church, West Enfield Baptist Church, care of 108 Abbott Drive, Enfield ME 04493, or leave donations at the funeral home. To sign an online guest register and to leave written condolences, please visit www.clayfuneralhome.com.
JAMES R. BLANCH
