Wesley Malcolm Blanchard, WPD Retd.

Wesley Malcolm Blanchard, 91, WPD Ret., of Warwick—affectionately known as “Doc”—passed into eternal rest on Monday, August 25, 2025, at Roger Williams Medical Center surrounded by his family.

He was the devoted husband of Marilyn (Nichols) Blanchard. He was born in Brockton, Massachusetts; and grew up in Whitman, Massachusetts. Wesley was the son of Malcolm and Viola (Calef) Blanchard and brother to Evelyn Cabral.

From a young age, Wesley developed a deep love for the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing—passions that remained with him throughout his life.

In 1955, Wesley met the love of his life, Marilyn. Together, they shared 70 years of unwavering commitment to each other and to their family.

Following high school graduation and marriage, Wesley began his service to country in the United States Navy during and after the Korean War. He was first stationed in Cuba and later in Rhode Island, which would become his lifelong home.

His dedication to service continued with a distinguished career in the Warwick Police Department, spanning over 30 years. He rose through the ranks from patrol officer to Chief of Police, a role he held for seven years.

Wesley and Marilyn raised a loving family of five children and their spouses, 12 grandchildren, and—at the time of his passing—10 great-grandchildren.

Children: Tina Tomaselli (Anthony), Craig Blanchard (Patti), Stacey Dorney (Jim), Kurt Blanchard (Lori), Mark Blanchard (Maggie)

Grandchildren: Anthony (Sarah), Scott (Mikaela), Tara (Michael), Andrew, Eric (Amanda), Jessie (Andrew), Jimmy (Justine), Zachary (Rachel), Caitlin (Rich), Blake, Victoria, and Sean.

Great-grandchildren: Mia, Wesley, Abbey, Thea, Luca, Matteo, Madeline, Caroline, Jack, and Rowyn.

Nieces and nephew: Judy, Denise, Frank, Valerie and Tracey.

Of all his accomplishments, Wesley cherished his family most. Every ball game, dance recital, graduation, or recognition was a reason to celebrate. He continued to share his love of hunting and fishing with his children and grandchildren, family vacations to Lake Winnipesaukee and creating lasting memories—especially on his 80th birthday, when the entire family gathered at the Rod and Gun Club in Martha’s Vineyard.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 10:00AM at Norwood Baptist Church, 48 Budlong Avenue, Warwick, with final resting at the RI Veterans Memorial Cemetery at 11:30AM. All are welcome to attend. Calling hours are respectfully omitted.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: The Nature Conservancy Attn: Treasury, 4245 N. Fairfax Drive, Suite 100 Arlington, VA 22203, honoring Wesley’s lifelong love of the outdoors.

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