George Lian Blanchard

Long time Cantwell resident George Lian Blanchard, 75, bravely lost his two year battle with colon cancer November 30, 2018. He chose to be at home, with family, and was strong and brave until the very end. George was born May 1, 1943 in Gig Harbor Washington. Raised in Skagway, AK, he and his 2 brothers loved to run and explore the beautiful outdoors. Once finishing school, he worked for the White Pass Railroad before joining the the Army in 1962. He was with the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Lee, Virginia for two years. Building his own home, getting married and having 3 sons in Washington, there was a need for carpenters in Cantwell, AK where his brother Gordy lived. Which in 1982 led him there to live the rest of his life. As a skilled Carpenter, Painter, Plumber and Electrician, he worked along the Parks Highway and in Denali Nat’l/State Parks on various hotels and built multiple dream homes. Including his own, with his bare hands. In 1998 he married Debbie Gore and lived happily in that lovely home for the next 20 years. George was such a hard worker and had a heart of gold, was always so helpful and caring to others. We will forever miss his infectious laugh and wonderful smile. George is survived by his wife Deborah; sons Crockett, Jimmy and Carl all of Tri-Cities; daughter Chera Gore of Fairbanks; brother Alex ‘Sandy’ Blanchard of Healy; sisters Helen Graham of Anchorage; Donna Marks of Arizona and many other family members. George was preceded in death by his father Alexander C. Blanchard his mother Geraldine Falconer and his brother Gordon Blanchard. There will be no services, but the family wants to thank everyone for their overwhelming love and support. May he forever Rest In Peace.