Nancy Case Blanchard

Nancy Case Blanchard, of Lakeville, MN passed away on Wednesday November 27, 2024 at the age of 85. She was born on 6/27/1939 in Minneapolis, MN where she grew up in Prospect Park graduating from Marshall High School in 1957.

She graduated from Charles T Miller School of Nursing, LPN in 1959, and Metropolitan State University, with a BA in Human Services in 1991.

Nancy is preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Mary (Shipley) Barney; and son, Christopher Blanchard.

She is survived by her loving husband of 65 years, James Blanchard; brother, Rick (Lynn) Barney; children, Mary Liz Holberg, Ann (Jason) Blanchard, Jay (Sue) Blanchard, Robbin (Kerstin); grandchildren, Kelsey and Cameron Holberg, John (Terri) Thornley, Ren (Alex) Clayton, Casey (Casey) Clayton, Maddy (Travis) Bryan, Jonathan and Lexi Clayton, Hunter (Alli) Clayton, Emma (Victor) Vera, Karlee Blanchard, Jake Blanchard, and Isabelle Blanchard; 15 great-grandchildren, more than 160 Foster Children over 35 years, as well as many relatives, family and friends.

Nancy, Mom , Grandma, Nana, was one of a kind. A wife, mother, business owner, quilter, and disability advocate that always made sure that everyone was welcome at her abundant dinner table which for special occasions was beautifully set.

Summers were spent at Camp We Gwos, a family camp in Pine City founded in 1921. Cousins from multiple generations built bonds of love swimming, fishing, and gathering daily for “grown-ups hour” on the deck. A most cherished 100-year-old journal, records the visits and events. Her persistent demand that everyone “sign the book” before leaving will be missed but the record of all the fun will keep her memories alive.

The entry of her first date with Jim Blanchard, the son of the bakery owners, is an important one. He became her “summer” boyfriend. When Jim arrived at the U of M (1957) a decision was made. He would be her long-time love and rock that supported her every step of the way.

As a pediatric nurse and foster mother, she nurtured children with love and limitless encouragement. Her efforts laid the foundation for mainstreaming children into classrooms and activities setting the ground work for the ISD 194 Special Ed. Program. Founding the Professional Association of Treatment Homes, she developed the first in the world child centered foster care service.

As the co-founder of Safety Signs she burst into the male dominated construction field, again striving to reform a culture by founding the Association of Women Contractors, after becoming certified as a Traffic Control Supervisor. She kept staff and grandchildren amused with her bowl of Laffy Taffy for all to share a treat and a joke.

This joy for life was also expressed with her talents for sewing, quilting, and doll making. And each Christmas, in a home exploding with thousands of Santas, she would shine with excitement as her homemade gifts were the best of the bunch. Baby dolls, matching pajamas, and beautiful quilts were the highlights. The tradition of a New Years party for the grandkids and family dinner the next day for all, started each year with the family together, just how she liked it.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service on Monday, December 16th at 11am at the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints, 18460 Kachina Ct, Lakeville, MN 55044, with visitation one hour prior.

Service on Zoom https://zoom.us/j/95048871955

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in her honor to Kota Connections, 8500 210th Street West, Suite 148 Lakeville, MN, 55044.

Nancy's Accomplishments and Impact:

1965 First Licensed as Foster Care Parents

1968 Started Camp Fire Girls in Lakeville

1973 Co-Founder of the Professional Association of Treatment Homes (PATH)

1978 Nancy and Jim Minnesota Foster Parents of the Year

1986 Co-Founder of “Foster Share”

1993 Co-Founder and President of Safety Signs

1994 Minnesota Mother of the Year

1995 Founding President of MN Association on Women Contractors

1999 Association of General Contractors of MN Board of Directors

2002-2005 President G.W. Bush Committee for people with Intellectual Abilities

2003 American Traffic Safety Services Association Member Humanitarian Award

2024 Sealed in marriage for eternity in the Latter-Day Saint Temple MN