Robert Blanford

Robert Blanford

May 13, 1947 - November 22, 2023

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Obituary

Blanford, Robert H. Jr.

Montrose, Michigan

Our dedicated father, grandfather, brother, uncle and dear friend passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 at Select Specialty Hospital Saginaw. He was 76 years old. Robert H. Blanford Jr. was born on May 13, 1947 in Saginaw to the late Robert H. Sr. and Nancy (Wickes) Blanford. Robert grew up in Montrose and studied at Montrose High School and then graduated from Pine Crest Academy in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. He proudly served his country with the United States Air Force from 1965 until 1969. He married Dalene Ferris on May 11, 1974, and they had four beautiful daughters together and have remained lifelong friends. Rob enjoyed working at his family's western store “Kee-Wah-Din” Farms in Montrose, raising hogs, horses and chickens. He loved to spend time with his family, wintering in Florida, farming at the family farm and watching U of M football. Rob will forever be remembered for his ability to create lifelong relationships and having a great conversation.

Rob's witty and fun sense of humor will be greatly missed by his daughters: Terra Pajchl, Tonya (Brian) Cook, Trista (Andrew) VanWormer and Tori (Justin) Seymour; grandchildren: Stella and Lucie Pajchl; Connor and James McLaughlin; sister, Ruth (Hal) Wattles; and extended family and dear friends.

Rob was preceded in death by his parents and his grandson, Camden A. Blanford.

In keeping with Rob's wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of his life will be held in the summer of 2024. A private committal and military honors under the auspices of the United States Air Force will be at Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly, Michigan. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a donation to the American Lung Association, https://www.lung.org/. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State), Saginaw, MI 48603. Please share your thoughts and memories through www.DeislerFuneralHome.com

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Robert
PP
Phillip Polasky
Other •
Rob and I would call each other "Chavy" when talking on the phone; the other greeting we had for each other was "SH" we knew what that stood for. One more thing about Rob was his lack of the gift of gab...LOL
AJ
A Memorial Tree was planted for Robert Blanford Jr.
Other •
We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ the staff at Deisler Funeral Home
MB
Michelle Brown
Other •
Ruth and family, I am very sorry to hear about your brother Robert’s passing. I always remembered mom talking about how he would come down and help her out. He and I talked occasionally on Facebook about family of whom he was very proud. May he rest in peace and May God wrap His arms about you and comfort. Old neighbor, Michelle Verbrugge Brown
GJ
George Thomas Blanford IV planted a tree in memory of Robert Blanford Jr.
Other •
I hope there is strength and satisfaction in knowing Rob is with God Our Father in Heaven
RC
Ronald Capuano
Other •
Rob was my USAF buddy and we served together at RAF Wethersfield, England. After my tour in England, I joined Rob at his business in Montrose, Michigan. We shared many good times together. He was a true friend and he will be missed by many.
RS
Ruth Slevin
Other •
He always enjoyed coming with his family to my Pet Store, Slevin's I owned in Frankenmuth's Bavarian Mall. They always enjoyed seeing the birds and other pets we had and talking to my shop parrot BABY, a yellow headed Amazon parrot. She would always say Hello--if she felt like it. If someone thought she was not going to say anything and turn to leave. she would start talking to get them to stay. She usually told them bye-bye and everyone would have a good laugh! She is still going strong! Ruth Slevin

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