Bruce Richard Blanchard, age 80, of North Platte, Nebraska passed away September 17, 2019 at Emerald Care and Rehab in Cozad, Nebraska. He was born on July 14, 1939 to Richard Blanchard and Helen MacDonald Blanchard in Montreal, Canada.

Bruce retired from the U.S. Airforce after 20 plus years of service. He flew as an engineer on the "Old Shakey" during the Vietnam War. During his years in the Air Force, Bruce interpreted six different languages which took him on lots of out of the country missions. He was also a tactical aircraft maintenance technician. Bruce was awarded many medals and awards throughout his time in the air force. After he retired from the military, he worked for American Family Insurance in North Platte for many years. Bruce loved going to airshows and anything to do with airplanes and never met a stranger.

Survivors include his wife Marlene (Olson) Blanchard of North Platte, Nebraska; sons Jay (Diane) Nickerson and Layne (Janeen) Nickerson of North Platte, Nebraska; sisters Susan (George) Morris and Diane Blanchard of Quebec, Canada; grandchildren Nicole, Bryson, and Dustin Nickerson; and a great-granddaughter Le'lani Nickerson.

He was proceeded in death by his parents.

Memorial donations are suggested in his name. Online condolences may be left at www.adamsswanson.com.

Memorial services will be 10:30 a.m. September 23, 2019 at Adams and Swanson Funeral Home with pastor Steven Berke officiating. Burial will be at Fort McPherson National Cemetery at 1:00 p.m. with military honors. Friends may sign the book from 9:00-5:00, September 20, 2019 at Adams and Swanson Funeral Home which is charge of arrangements.