Anthony Blanch

POLAND - Prayers will begin Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. at the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Poland Chapel, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at the Holy Family Church, for Anthony C. Blanch, 72, who passed away Sunday evening, March 5, 2017, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

"Tony" was born in Youngstown, on Dec. 13, 1944, to Christian Charles and Josephine Theresa (Italiano) Blanch.

A 1963 graduate of Struthers High School, Tony proudly served in the U.S. Navy on board the USS Cromwell (DE-1014) from 1964 to 1966, where he was trained as an electrician. After being honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy, Tony worked at the former Economy Electric and GE Lamp Plant, and then went on to work as a member of UAW Local No. 1714 at Fisher Body Fabricating, now General Motors Stamping Plant, in Lordstown, where he retired after 41 years.

Tony enjoyed being a member of the Wick Lodge, which he joined in 2005. He was also a member of the Austintown Eagles No. 3298, a member of the Holy Family Church, and a former member of the Mahoning Valley Stamp Club.

He is survived by the love of his life, his wife, Carol (Zaklukiewicz/Zack), whom he married Oct. 19, 1968; his children, Rick (Donna) Blanch, Nick (Lucinda) Blanch, and Debbie (Geoff) Armbrecht; and seven grandchildren. Tony also leaves his sister, Korenne (Carden) Walsh; brother-in-law Wesley Melton; and close cousins and friends.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents; his oldest son, Robert Anthony Blanch, M.D.; and his sister, Angela Marie Melton.

Family and friends may call today from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.

The family would like to thank Dr. Frangopoulos and MVI Hospice for all their care and support.

Visit www.higgins-reardon.com to send condolences to the family.