NORTHBOROUGH

It is with profound sadness that the Blanchard family shares the passing of Paul Michael Blanchard, who died peacefully at home in the early morning hours of Thursday, June 18, 2026, surrounded by the supportive love of his family. He was 49 years old.

Paul was raised in Marlborough and attended Marlborough Public Schools before enrolling in the Carpentry program at Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School. It was there that he discovered both his talent for the construction trades and the work ethic that would define much of his life. While excelling in the attainment of carpentry skills, Paul found success as an accomplished athlete who enjoyed football, basketball, and track and field.

Following his graduation in 1996, Paul began his career with S&F Concrete in Hudson and later continued with G&C Concrete. Throughout his years in the field, he earned the respect of coworkers and employers alike for his technical abilities, leadership qualities, and unwavering commitment to his work. His passion for the trades eventually led him to the North Atlantic States Carpenters Training Fund's Millbury Training Center, where he served as an instructor before advancing to the position of Senior Technical Coordinator. Paul had a profound love for his job and looked forward to going to work every day. He considered his coworkers to be family and had a deep admiration for every one of them. Paul formed an incredibly close bond with his coworker Eric Martinez whom he loved as a brother. The two of them were inseparable and the family will be forever grateful for Eric’s love and support throughout his career and especially during this difficult journey.

Paul took tremendous pride in his membership with Local 336 and considered his union brothers and sisters an extension of his family. One of his most meaningful contributions was preparing the next generation of union carpenters for successful careers. He looked forward to each graduating class and found satisfaction in seeing former students succeed in their future endeavors.

Driven, energetic, and determined, Paul approached every day with purpose. From the moment he woke until the end of the day, he encouraged those around him to work hard, overcome obstacles, and strive to be their best. He believed challenges were meant to be confronted rather than avoided and consistently encouraged others to persevere through difficult circumstances. Never one to encourage a lackadaisical effort, Paul’s words were known to be on-point and out of a true concern for those he worked alongside, taught or befriended.

When faced with the unimaginable challenge of a pancreatic cancer diagnosis in 2025, Paul responded with the same determination that had guided him throughout his life. He thoroughly explored every available option and continued moving forward with daily activities that defined his character. He remained actively involved in his work, continued supporting those around him, and focused on creating memories with family and friends. Throughout his illness, cancer never defined who he was. Friends and family continued to experience the quick wit, directed wisecracks & practical jokes, and the genuine smile that defined Paul. Until his final days, Paul's personality and spirit remained unchanged – a true gift he provided to those by his side.

Family was at the center of Paul's life. After long days at work, he could often be found coaching youth sports throughout Northborough, including football, baseball, basketball, and softball. He would also make the time to serve on the various boards of the sports that he coached and was deeply invested in the success and development of young athletes. Sports offered a chance to emphasize effort, accountability, teamwork, and perseverance.

Beyond coaching, Paul generously shared his time and talents throughout the community. He proudly volunteered towards the repair of the scoreboard and snack shack at the baseball field. He remained true to his alma mater- Assabet Valley RTHS, where he served on the Carpentry Program Advisory Committee. He frequently welcomed students from Assabet Valley and other vocational schools to the Training Center, providing educational opportunities and supportive guidance to those entering the trades. In recognition of his dedication to vocational education and workforce development, he was inducted into the Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School Hall of Achievement in 2024.

One of Paul’s favorite summer activities was spending time camping as he could be found any given weekend at Bayley's Camping Resort in Scarborough, Maine. He spent many hours by the pool, seeing live entertainment, or having dinner with family and friends. He loved mornings around the campfire and sharing conversation and adventures. Paul especially cherished the camp family formed at Bayley’s.

Paul leaves behind his devoted wife of 27 years, Jody (Pierce) Blanchard; his children Marcus Blanchard and his wife Samantha, Derek Blanchard and his girlfriend Marissa Telech, Caitlyn Blanchard, and Katrina Ortega and her husband Kyle. He is also survived by his mother, Diane Blanchard; his grandchildren Colt and Katy Ortega, along with his aunt, uncles, and cousins. Paul will be remembered by his lifelong friends, RJ and Kelly Bushey, whom he considered family; and Colleen Crawford and Michael Crane, who shared many years of adventures. In addition, Paul leaves beside his lovely chocolate Labrador retriever, Luke, who provided Paul with his unwavering presence and support. 

Paul's family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to everyone who offered support, encouragement, and kindness throughout his illness. They extend a sincere thank you to the nurses and staff of the oncology department, the infusion clinic and the nurses on 8 North; all at UMass Memorial Medical Center – University Campus, and also to the nurses and staff at the North Pavilion. The family would also like to offer heartfelt acknowledgement to the Interventional Radiology Department at UMass-Memorial Campus for their thoughtfulness and special care. The compassion and dedication shown to Paul and his family will never be forgotten.

Calling hours will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 25, at Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main Street, Northborough. His funeral will be held from the funeral home at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, June 26, followed by burial in Howard Street Cemetery, Northborough.

Paul’s family respectfully requests in lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution to be made in Paul’s name to Tommy’s Place Foundation, Inc., 82 Shore Ave. Quincy, MA 02169.