Goshen, IN - Jerry "Jug" E. Blanchard, 73, passed away peacefully under hospice care at his home on Thursday, Aug. 6.

He was born on Sept.14, 1952, in LaGrange County, to Ervin and Esther (Lawson) Blanchard.

Jerry retired from Larimer Furniture in Wakarusa, where he worked in furniture sales.

He lived a very active social life and was known by all for his great sense of humor.

Jerry was an avid collector of memorabiliaespecially items from Ligonier and he enjoyed antiquing and frequenting Bill's Junk Shop.

Reflecting his love for his hometown's history, he started and maintained a Facebook page called "Growing Up Ligonier."

Jerry was also a passionate animal lover who cherished his cats and dogs.

He is survived by a sister-in-law, Marvena "Kay" Blanchard of Maumee, Ohio; a nephew, Joseph (Heather) Blanchard of Wauseon, Ohio; a niece, Kim Hughes of Indianapolis; a long-time friend, Lena Smediuk; as well as his great-nieces and great-nephews, Jonah, Jacob, Josie, and Jada Blanchard, and Matthew Hughes.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ervin and Esther Blanchard; and brother, David Blanchard.

A graveside memorial is scheduled for 11 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 22, at Sparta Cemetery in Kimmel (south side of US-33).