Archie Blanchard Jr

Archie W. Blanchard, Jr., age 93, of Lake Clear, NY passed away on February 12, 2024 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Archie was born on February 8, 1931 the son of Archie W. and Margaret (Stacy) Blanchard, Sr in Brushton, NY where he grew up. His family moved to Lake Clear in 1946. Archie and his mother, Margaret bought property where they built and opened the first general store “Bean/Blanchard Grocery”. It started out as a snack/fast food bar until 1955 when they started selling beer and other groceries. They owned and ran the store until its closing in 1966.

During this time, Archie was drafted into the Army where he served his country from 1951 until 1953 in the Korean War. Archie worked for NYS Dept of Environmental Conservation as a carpenter foreman for 37 years, retiring in 1986.

Archie is predeceased by his daughter Gay Marie Karnes, his son Archie Blanchard III, his granddaughter Harlie Lynn Rascoe and his great granddaughter Rosaleigh Marie Blanchard. In addition to his parents, Archie is also predeceased by his step-mother Shirley Blanchard, his step-father Fred Bean; siblings: Wanda Lore, Betty Jean Inman, Harold Blanchard, Charles Blanchard, sister-in-law Violet Dora, his sons-in-law Harold (Joe) Karnes and Anthony (Tony) McDaniel.

Archie is survived by his loving wife of over 50 years, Patricia Blanchard. His children: Joanne Blanchard McDaniel, Harold (Erin Smyth Mitchell) Blanchard, Jean Blanchard, Christina (William Stamper) Blanchard, Kimberly (David) Rascoe. Siblings: Robert Dora, Jack, Honie, and Frank Blanchard, his brother-in-law Kenneth McGarvey, as well as 16 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

Archie enjoyed hunting, fishing and going to hunting camp with his brother Bob Dora. Archie enjoyed being with his family, telling stories and talking about “the old days”.

Funeral Arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home, 20 Church Street, Saranac Lake, NY 12983. At Archie’s request there will be no calling hours. All funeral services will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Family and friends wishing to remember Archie W. Blanchard, Jr. may make memorial contributions to the Saranac Lake Volunteer Fire Department or the Saranac Lake Volunteer Rescue Squad in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home, 20 Church Street, Saranac Lake, NY 12983. Family and friends can also share their memories, send a condolence and sign the online guest book at www.fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.