Henry Blatchford

September 06, 1938 - October 10, 2025 Henry “Doc” Blatchford passed away peacefully at his home in Palmer, Alaska, on October 10, 2025, at the age of 87. He was born on September 6, 1938, in Teller, Alaska, to Percy Blatchford of Cornwall, England, and Mae Herman Ningeulook of Shishmaref. One of 14 children, Doc spent his early years in Teller, Nome, Sitka, and Seward. He graduated from Seward High School in 1957. In 1958, he began his career with Miner Rupp. He then was inducted into the Miner’s Hall of Fame. After the mine closed, he worked on the North Slope beginning in 1969, spending 19 winters there. During summers, he was employed by Hermon Brothers Construction for 16 years. Known as one of the best operators in the union, Doc worked on the Pipeline and built ice roads and runways across numerous villages. An avid outdoorsman, Doc enjoyed hunting, ice and sport fishing. He also commercial fished in Kodiak and Seldovia. Alongside his best friend Bert, they once won grand prizes at both the Seward and Valdez Fish Derbies, and boat together. He loved fishing trips with friends and teaching his children and grandchildren outdoor skills. Doc also loved sports—playing basketball in high school and City League—and was a devoted fan of Valley Green Giants and Mat-Su Miners baseball. He also enjoyed game shows, pull tabs, and newspaper puzzles. He was known in Palmer for his kindness, humor, and generosity. He took pride in his home and lawn and was always helping others. Doc was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Tommy, Eugene, Ernest, Percy, Jack, and Sid; sisters Grace, Dolly, May, Gloria, Chris, and Ruby; son Dale; and daughter Isabella. He is survived by his sister Marjorie; children Henry (Waynette) Lax, Craig (Pat), Karen (Jake) MacDonald, and Glen; eight grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; sister-in-law Peggy; brother-in-law Jay Holmberg; and many other relatives. A service and potluck celebration of life will be held on Friday, October 24 at 2 p.m. at the Palmer Moose Lodge #792, 1136 S Cobb St, Palmer.