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Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, George lived a life marked by dedication, achievement, friendship, and a deep love for his family. A 1960 graduate of Pius XI High School, George was an All-Conference and All-State football player. He had the rare honor of serving as a batboy for the Milwaukee Braves during their World Series title years, 1957-1959. George continued his football career at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, where he was named an NAIA All-American in both 1964 and 1965.
George began a long and impactful career as a high school football coach, first at Algoma High School from 1966 to 1971, and then at Brown Deer High School, where he coached from 1972 until his retirement in 1998. George served as Athletic Director at BDHS from 1982 to 1998 and was named the district’s first-ever Teacher of the Year. In 2013, he was inducted into the Wisconsin Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
George met the love of his life, Sharon, in college, and the two were happily married for 50 years. Together, they raised two daughters, Michelle (Rob) Dombrowski and Lisa (Dave) Jaehn, and built a life rooted in love, support, and laughter. He was the proudest grandfather to Robbie (fiancée Maddie West) and Amanda Dombrowski, and Ryan and Lauren Fortney, who brought him endless pride and joy. He enjoyed cheering them on at their many sporting events and watching them compete in the annual “Butchie Cup” competition in Eagle River every summer.
George was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon, his parents, George T. and Doris Blanchard, and his sister, Sharon (Vince) Picciolo.
He is survived by his daughters and their families, brother Tom (Sheryl) Blanchard, and many beloved nieces, nephews, other family, and friends.
He will be remembered for his larger-than-life personality, his one-of-a-kind sense of humor, his impact on generations of players and fellow educators, and his unwavering commitment to making those around him better.
The family would like to thank Dr. Imran Sajjad; Melissa Boling and St. Croix Hospice; and Destiny, Mikasha, and Cornerstone Caregiving for their compassion and care.
Memorial Gathering at Krause Funeral Home, 21600 West Capitol Drive, Brookfield, Wisconsin on Thursday, April 24, 2025, 4:00 PM – 5:45 PM. Memorial Service at 6:00 PM.
George “Butch” F. Blanchard, age 83, of North Prairie, WI, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2025. Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, George lived a life marked by dedication, achievement, friendship, and a deep love for his family. A 1960 graduate of Pius XI High School, George was an All-Conference and All-State football player. He hadContinue Reading