Nelson S. BLANCHARD

CUMBERLAND - Nelson S. Blanchard, 90, a lifelong resident of Greely Road, died Mar. 20, 2005 in a Westbrook rehabilitation center following a brief illness.He was born in Cumberland, a son of Philip L. and Isabella F. Sweetser Blanchard. Nelson graduated from Greely High School and also attended University of Maine.As a young man, he worked on the family farm and also worked in the logging business. He later owned and operated a gravel pit and excavation business before retiring. He lived on the farm all his life until last year when he and his wife moved to a Casco assisted living facility.Nelson enjoyed gardening all his life. He was a lover of animals and especially enjoyed his dogs. He was active in the Grange and was past master of Wescustogo Grange in North Yarmouth, past master of Cumberland County Pomona, a member of the Maine State Grange where he served as a Deputy for several years and a member of the National Grange. Nelson became a member of the Cumberland Congregational Church at the age of 14 and maintained that membership until his death. He is survived by his wife of nearly 70 years, Luella C. Appleby Blanchard of Casco; six children, Earl S. Blanchard and wife Shirley of Augusta, Robert O. Blanchard and wife Ellen of Durham, N.H., Willard R. Blanchard and wife Marcia of Windham, Jacqueline L. Yeaney of Cumberland, Jeanne M. Scott and husband Roy of Limington, and Chester L. Blanchard and wife Florence of New Gloucester. Also survived by 15 grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, 10 step-great-grandchild- ren and four great-great-grand- children.Visiting hours will be held from 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday at Lindquist Funeral Home, 1 Mayberry Lane, Yarmouth. A funeral will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday at Cumberland Congregational Church, 282 Main St., Cumberland Center. Burial will be at Moss Side Cemetery in Cumberland in the spring.