Paul Peter Blanchette, 69, of Lexington Park, MD died Thursday, August 27, 2015 at MedStar St. Mary's Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was born on May 8, 1946 in Norwich, CT to the late Theodore A. Blanchette and Alice Tetreault Blanchette.

On August 22, 1968, Paul proudly enlisted in the United States Army and served his country until his honorable discharge on August 21, 1974.

On June 13, 1971 he married his beloved wife, Kathleen Blanchette at St. Matthews Church in Cranston, RI. Together they celebrated over 44 wonderful years together.

Paul earned his Doctorate Degree from Brown University. He dedicated 40 years as a Professor of Chemistry at St. Mary's College of Maryland. He was a gifted teacher, and had a passion to help others learn.

His hobbies included flower gardening, photography, and travelling to watch NASCAR races. He was an avid New York Giants fan, and also enjoyed watching the Washington Redskins and Washington Nationals. He was a gifted carpenter and built many beautiful pieces of furniture. He loved to spend his time with family and friends; and enjoyed travelling to Daytona Beach to visit his brother and Lexington, NC to visit with close friends. He was a member of the American Chemical Society, VFW Post 2632, and St. Mary's County Emergency Friendly Fund.

Paul is survived by his wife, Kathleen Blanchette of Lexington Park, MD; his brother, Theodore Blanchette, Jr. (Cecelia) of Oswegatchie, NY; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents.

Family will receive friends on Thursday, September 3, 2015 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 22375 Three Notch Road, Lexington Park, MD 20653. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Reverend Michal Sajnog at 12:00 p.m. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the St. Mary's College of Maryland Foundation, Re: Paul Blanchette Chemistry Award Fund, 18952 East Fisher Road, St. Mary's City, MD 20686. Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A.