Terry Lee Blanchard

Our dear husband, father, son, and brother Terry Lee Blanchard passed away in his sleep June 13, 2024 in his West Des Moines apartment at the age of 59.

A visitation for Terry will be held from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Wednesday, June 19th, 2024 at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home - Adel Chapel. A graveside service will take place at 9:30 am the following day, Thursday, June 20, 2024 at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Adel, IA. Terry's funeral ceremony will follow the graveside service at 11:00 am at Westwood Baptist Church, 895 S 60th St., West Des Moines, IA.

Terry was born June 16, 1964 in Des Moines, Iowa to Robert and Bonnie (Prouty) Blanchard.  He graduated from Van Meter High School in 1983.  Following high school he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served on active duty until 1987 and in the U.S. Army reserves from 1987-2005.  Terry earned an Associates Degree from Des Moines Area Community College in 2015.  At the time of his passing, Terry was employed by the State of Iowa DAS as a Custodial Services Supervisor and the Van Meter Schools as a bus driver.

Terry married his wife Karen (Stout) Blanchard October 8, 1988. He was preceded in death by his father Robert and son Joshua.  Terry was survived by his wife Karen, daughter Elizabeth (Moses) Powell Eckstein of Ankeny, son Matthew Blanchard of West Des Moines, son Benjamin (Ben) Blanchard of West Des Moines, and daughter Rebekah Blanchard of Grimes.

Terry was just Terry.  As he grew up and throughout his life if you needed something or help with something there was Terry.  It didn't matter if you were family, friend or a stranger on the street there was Terry.  It didn't matter how tired or busy he was, he would make time for people.  He had a heart of gold.  He touched so many lives.  Parents knew their kids would be safe riding his school bus.  Coaches and players knew they would be on time for their games and would get there and back safely.  He was a wonderful husband and father who was always there when we needed him the most, offering support, wisdom, a laugh, or just a hug.  Oh how he loved his kids.  We'd like to think he cherished every moment with us.

Terry was a member and deacon at Westwood Baptist Church.  In his free time he enjoyed watching football and hockey, watching movies, building with legos, and doing puzzles.

His passing leaves a void in our hearts and will be felt far and wide.

Online condolences can be made to the family at caldwellparrish.com