Edward J. H. BLANCHARD

SPRINGFIELD - Edward J. H. "Cowboy" Blanchard, Sr., 66, died March 3, 2005 at Baystate Medical Center. Edward was born in Chicopee on March 6, 1938 to Edward J. and Cecile L. (Benoit) Blanchard. "Cowboy" was a self-employed tractor trailer driver. He was also an avid motorcyclist, loved bowling, fishing and boating. He leaves his beloved wife, Estelle (Richards) Blanchard of Chicopee; one son, Edward J. H. Blanchard, Jr.; one granddaughter, Jessica Lynn Blanchard; 2 sisters, Theresa O. Bergeron and Darlene A. Courchesne; one brother, George P. Blanchard. He was predeceased by a brother, Norman P. Blanchard. He leaves 16 nieces and nephews. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Starzyk Funeral Home, Inc. There are no calling hours. Funeral will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to the Joslin Diabetes Center Affiliate and Mercy Hospital 271 Carew St., Springfield, MA 01104. Published in The Republican on 3/7/2005.