Somersworth- David Leo Blanchette, 82, of Somersworth, died peacefully on Friday March 18, 2016 surrounded by loved ones.

Born in Dover, NH on March 26, 1933, David was the son of the late Felix Blanchette and Rose Ann (Louzon) Blanchette.

Upon graduation from Berwick Academy in 1951, he enlisted in the United States Navy where he served for 4 years as a machinist. After leaving the Navy in 1955, he enrolled in tech school to earn his certificate as master machinist. He put his skills to use for 30 years at Moore Business Forms in Dover, NH before retiring in 1994.

In his retirement, family, friends, sports the racetracks and endless amounts of cribbage filled up his time. On the handcrafted cribbage boards that David perfected, he made sure each of his children, and grandchildren learned how to play the game. He took great pleasure in any and all sporting events, and was especially proud to boast of his grandchildren's achievements in their various athletic endeavors.

From his neighbors on Green St in Somersworth, at his Tri City Apartments to the countless staff and residents at his home at Durgin Pines, his wit and candor created an undeniable charm that earned him friends wherever he was.

His popularity definitely was not defined by age, as his social circles included the countless friends of his grandchildren. During his 9 years living in his in-law apartment at his son, Marks, home, he took great joy in hosting poker games, commentating during every playoff season, offering the un-solicited but very much respected words of wisdom, and critiquing all of Trudy's home cooked meals.

His family will forever appreciate his sharing with them some of the finest things in life: maple rounds, moxie, butterscotch candies, and the art of having snacks to share at all times.

David is predeceased by his wife of 41 years, Cecile (Guillemette) Blanchette. He is survived by his children; Linda and husband Ed Schneller of Newport, ME, Mark and wife Trudy of South Berwick, ME, Dennis Blanchette of Palm Springs, CA and Nancy Blanchette of York, ME; his grandchildren, David and Jamie Schneller, and Amanda, Sarah, Beau, Lucas and Aubrey Blanchette as well as many cousins and close friends.

Services: A graveside service will take place on Wednesday, March 23rd 1pm, at St. Michaels Cemetery in Rollinsford, NH, with a gathering of family and friends to follow at his son's home on Lindsey Lane in South Berwick. The family asks that any donations be made to Hyder Family Hospice House, 285 County Farm Rd, Dover NH 03820.