Worcester/Grafton: Edmund “Skip” Blanding, 82 passed away at home surrounded by his family October 17, 2021. Skip was predeceased by his wife of 53 years, Barbara (Porcaro) Blanding who passed away in 2017. Skip leaves his children Frank Blanding and his wife Maria Walker, Charlene Armendo and her husband Marty, and Sherrie Blanding and her significant other James Tela, His grandchildren Dean Blanding-Johanson, Kalie McAuliffe, Adrianna Armendo and his niece Paulette Blanding-Freeman. Skip was born in Gardner, MA and lived in Grafton for many years before marrying and settling in Worcester. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy at age 18 and served for 9 years. Dedicated to service, he then joined the U.S. Army where he continued to serve for 25 years where he earned the rank of 1st. Sergeant. Skip’s hard working hands were seldom at rest working as a mechanic for decades at Moran and Sons and Duquette’s service station. Skip helped everyone all the time whenever he could with his many skills. His number one love was bowling often winning awards and tournaments he competed in. If he wasn’t working, you could find him riding his Harley Davidson to various locations around New England. All are welcome to gather with Skips family Friday October 22nd from 4-7pm at Roney Funeral home 152 Worcester St. N. Grafton, Ma 01536. A brief service will be held for Skip Saturday October 23rd at 9am in the funeral home. He will then be laid to rest with military honors at Riverside Cemetery in Grafton. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Veterans Inc. 69 Grove St. Worcester, MA 01605. A Book of Memories to share a message or favorite story with his family is available online at:

www.RoneyFuneralHome.com