Blanchard De Merchant ’68

Dr. Blanchard L. De Merchant of St. Charles, Missouri passed away Thursday, April 4, 2019 at the age of 76.  Husband of 51 years to Phillis K. De Merchant (who preceded him in death), son of the late Roy and Mereda; father of Sonya De Merchant and Nicole (Ramiro Pacheco) De Merchant; cherished grandfather of Nicolas Rivera; brother of Paul (Joan) De Merchant; legal guardian to the beautiful feline, Princess Fyodora.

Blanchard was a brilliant philosopher, debater, teacher and student for life. He was a published author and a consummate reader.  He was a gadget builder, a tinkerer, an experimenter and chemistry assistant to his grandson.  He was a world traveler. He enjoyed many trips to Europe with his wife, Phillis, and especially cherished his sabbatical to Vietnam with his dear friend, Bruce.  He was a Vietnam Veteran, serving in Army from 1968-1970  An amateur photographer, he filled three homes with his exquisite photos taken of his travels and beauty.  He taught Philosophy at Wayne State University, St. Mary’s College in Michigan and St. Charles Community College (SCCC) in Missouri, wherein, he was head of the Philosophy Department for many years. He changed the lives and expanded the minds of many students. His last occupation after retiring early from CLL, was the rewarding job volunteering for Hospice with Phillis.

Blanchard was a generous husband and father. He was kind and wickedly funny.  He’ll be dearly missed.

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