Ronald Gene Blanchard (age 76), born on March 31, 1947, the cherished son of Jack and Lois Blanchard of Warsaw, Indiana, peacefully passed away in his Florida home on December 26, 2023. He is survived by his sisters Angela Blanchard Gross and Judy Dave Stone of Indiana, his former spouses, Aileen Blanchard of Augusta, Georgia and Shelby Blanchard of North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and his twin daughters Shelly and Sheila Blanchard of Raleigh, NC. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Emily and Ian Hambright, whom he cherished dearly.

Renowned for his wit and kindness, Ron was hailed as the world's greatest dad by his daughters, who fondly remember his competitive spirit during family pool games, always encouraging them to strive for excellence. A proud veteran of both the Army and the Navy, Ron served his country with honor until his discharge from the Navy in May 1971 and the Army in September 1977.

His love for nature, particularly birds, was evident to all who knew him. He enjoyed regaling friends and family with tales of his backyard adventures, including the infamous incident in which his daughters locked him and their mother in the aviary, in order to get ice cream. 

Ron's passions extended beyond the aviary to include Burger King, NC State, and Hoosier basketball. He took great pleasure in discussing the highs and lows of the season with Sheila and Shelly, demonstrating his unwavering support and love for his family.

A full interment and remembrance ceremony will be held at the Salisbury National Cemetery on April 1, 2024, at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the SPCA in honor of Ron's love for dogs, a cause that was close to his heart throughout his life. Ron will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched with his kindness and humor.

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