Dennis Blair Blanchard

It is with undefinable sadness we announce the sudden passing of Dennis Blair Blanchard on August 14th, 2024. 

Born in Portage la Prairie, Dennis spent the days of his youth making lifelong friends in the community and finding his passion for cooking, fishing and family. Dennis was joined in matrimony with the love of his life in April of 1994, and they would spend 36 years of their lives entwined in each other’s love. A devoted and loving husband, proud and supportive father and grandfather, thoughtful and loyal son, and unforgettable friend to countless numbers of people, Dennis attended Fort la Reine School, Prince Charles School and Portage Collegiate Institute, and had numerous career paths including a list of cooking achievements far too long to name. Though he held many positions in the fields of healthcare, agriculture and hospitality, he cherished the work he did alongside his father Maurice on the frozen ice of Lake Manitoba above all else. 

Predeceased by his grandmother Annie Blanchard, his father Maurice Blanchard, his sister Lynn Bowden and his brother Randy Blanchard. Dennis is lovingly remembered by his wife Debbie Harris, his children Joshua (Meg) Harris, Samantha (Mike) Lavallee, Adam Blanchard, Aaron (Ericka) Blanchard, his grandchildren Evie, Jory, Gage, Jaxson, Jessie-Lynn, Abigail, Cody, Ireland, Lauren, and Michael, sisters Daphne (Craig Steeden) and Corrie (Rick Inkster), nieces and nephews Carmen, Derek, Tyler, Michael, Shane, Lisa, Todd, Cara, Cole, Aiden, and Casey, mother Shirley and special friend Blayne Proden.

Dennis felt the love of Christ in his heart, and maintained a joy for sharing his spirituality with others. A viewing will be held Thursday, August 22nd at Mackenzie Funeral Home in Portage la Prairie from 7:00 – 8:00 pm. A celebration of his life will be held at the William Glesby Centre at 1:00 pm on Saturday August 24th, 2024. All who knew him are invited to join us in sharing stories and memories of the life of this incredible man.

 A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel.  www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com