Gary Blanchard

Gary Merlin Blanchard, loving father, grandfather, brother, and friend passed away on August 5,2026. He was born on March 7, 1947, in Roosevelt, Utah to Ralph Merlin Blanchard and Anna Dorthella Blanchard. He has three sisters, Ann, Carol and Julie.

Gary lived a life defined by hard work, quiet strength, service to his country, and a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.

Gary loved his family. He is the father of three daughters: Natalie Blanchard-Hedgecock, Angula Blanchard and Becky Chantrill-Rodriquez and stepdaughters Kari Davis and Lisa Johnson.

Gary is the proud grandfather to Jesse, Shandi, Caden, Shailey, Daxton, Payten, Dorion, De’Shaune, Darius, and Denarow. His family brought great meaning to his life with memories they created together-whether gathered at home, enjoying the outdoors, or setting off on another ride with Pepsi, twinkies, and licorice packed along. These memories will remain a treasured part of his legacy.

Gary was preceded in death by his sister Ann and his parents Ralph and Anna Dorthella Blanchard, who helped instill in him the values of work, perseverance and devotion to family.

Gary took pride in his work as a meat cutter and earned the affectionate reputation as “Best Butcher in Town”. He worked for Smith Brothers in Pleasant Grove, Target and Smiths in Orem. Gary approached his work with skill, precision and dedication. He truly enjoyed staying busy and working with his hands.

When he was not working Gary loved being outdoors. Horses, four-wheelers, and fishing were his favorite ways to spend his time. Before heading out on these adventures, Gary could often be heard giving one familiar reminder: “Don’t forget the Pepsi, Twinkies and licorice.” It was a simple saying that became part of the memories his family will always associate with the time and adventures they all spent together.

Gary served his country with courage and distinction. During his military service in the US Army, he was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star in recognition of his bravery and sacrifice. His service was a lasting reflection of his strength, determination, and commitment to his country.

Gary began his life in Roosevelt, Utah. At the age of three his family moved to Lindon where Gary attended school and graduated from Pleasant Grove High School. He later bought a beautiful home in Mapleton with a pasture for his horses. He worked hard and felt joy in keeping the yard and pasture beautiful. Each place became part of his story and brought friendships, experiences and memories that stayed with him throughout his life.

Gary leaves behind a legacy of courage, dedication and countless memories that will continue to bring smiles to those who knew and loved him. His military service will forever be remembered with honor, but to his family he will be remembered most for the everyday moments, familiar sayings and traditions that made him uniquely Gary.

Graveside services with military honors will be held Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 9:30 am at the Utah Veterans Cemetery & Memorial Park, 17111 1700 W (also known as 17111 S Camp Williams Road), Bluffdale, Utah 84065. Interment will follow the service.

Condolences may be extended online at www.bergmortuary.com. Family and friends are invited to honor Gary’s life by sharing memories, messages, and photographs on his memorial page.