SCARBOROUGH — David Ernest Blanchard, 66, died unexpectedly Jan. 1.

Born Dec. 2, 1944, in Salem, Mass., he was the son of Donald N. and Charlotte (Smith) Blanchard, and grew up in Winthrop and Lewiston.

After he graduated in 1963 from St. Dominic High School in Lewiston, he attended Maine Central Institute, studied engineering at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and studied aeronautics at East Coast Aero Tech.

He began working as an aircraft mechanic at Western Airlines in California, and later returned to Maine to work at Maine Aviation, where he was head of aircraft maintenance for many years.

Later on he worked for Teledyne Continental Motors in the aircraft products division.

In addition to his interest in aviation, he had a passion for restoring classic cars, especially Mustangs.

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He entered his vehicles in various car shows throughout New England, and won many trophies.

His many friends will remember him for his knowledge of automobiles and aircraft, his meticulous way of doing things and his wonderful sense of humor.

On Dec. 9, 1983, he married Nancy (Steele) Blanchard and had one son, Geoffrey. They lived in Scarborough where he also served for many years on the Scarborough Volunteer Fire Department.

The family wishes to express appreciation to the staff at Maine Medical Center and to the Scarborough Rescue and Police for their valiant efforts. Also, heartfelt love and appreciation are given to the many family and friends for their kindness and caring during this very difficult time.

He was predeceased by his parents, his father-in-law, Robert Steele, a brother-in-law Dr. Henry Pache.

Surviving are his loving wife of 27 years, Nancy; his wonderful son, Geoffrey; a sister, Donna Pache-Marshall and Ronnie of Rhode Island, two brothers, James Blanchard and Joanne, and Anthony Blanchard and Ann, all of Scarborough; his mother-in-law, Barbara Steele of Georgia; sister-in-law, Kristina Knight and Randy, of Georgia, and sister-in-law Linda Hartwell of New Hampshire; four nephews, Andrew Pache, Adam Blanchard, Nico Blanchard and Mark Saulnier, and two nieces, Karen Cabral and Kristi Hunley; his devoted cocker spaniels Robbie and Libby; and his many friends.

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Memorial services were held Jan. 5 at Hobbs Funeral Home, 671 U.S. Route 1, Scarborough.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at hobbsfuneralhome.com.

Memorial donations may be made to Scarborough Rescue and Fire Department, 246 U.S. Route 1, Scarborough, ME 04074, or to the Animal Refuge League, P.O. Box 236, Westbrook, ME 04098.

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