Dean Herbert Blanchard

GRAY – Dean Herbert Blanchard, 55, passed away on Aug. 25, 2025, in Gray.

Born on Feb. 4, 1970, in Portland, Dean lived a life marked by quiet dedication, curiosity, and compassion. Dean attended Yarmouth and Falmouth Schools graduating from Falmouth High School in 1988.

Dean attended Florida State College in Jacksonville, Fla. for one year and then went on to earn his Bachelor of Science degree from Westbrook College (now known as the University of New England) in 1992. Following college, he married his former wife, Teresa Kelly and they were married for 22 years.

He then went on to a career as a Medical Lab Technologist at several hospitals and laboratories in the southern Maine area. His work reflected his meticulous nature and commitment to helping others through science and care.

Outside of his professional life, Dean found joy in writing poetry. He also had a passion for refurbishing old tools – often salvaging rusted items from the local dump and transforming them into fully functional pieces. His fascination extended beyond repair: he would research each tool’s history with enthusiasm, uncovering stories behind their design and use. This hobby was not just about craftsmanship but also about honoring the past.

Dean also had a deep love for animals, especially cats. He shared his home with feline companions who brought him comfort and joy. His compassion extended beyond his own pets – he volunteered his time at HART (Homeless Animal Rescue Team) offering care and support to cats in need.

He is lovingly remembered by his mother, Susan Herbert Holmes, his stepfather, Douglas Holmes of Falmouth; his father, Jon H. Blanchard, his stepmother, Dorothy Blanchard of Windham; his brother, Alexander Blanchard and wife Rebecca of Huntsville, Ala.; his cousin, Rebecca Wade and husband Dan of Naples; his aunt, Donna Pesce of Gorham, his aunt, Joyce Blanchard of Portland; also his former stepmother, Karen Vandermast of Portland; and numerous other relatives.

Dean’s kindness and gentle spirit touched many lives. May his memory bring comfort to those that knew him.

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Sept. 12, at Blanchard Cemetery, 215 Winn Rd., Falmouth, with a reception to follow at West Cumberland Methodist Church, 5 Upper Methodist Rd., Cumberland.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dean’s name to HART of Maine