David H. Blanchette, 74, of West Wareham, died Saturday, October 19, 2019 at St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford after a long illness. He was the husband of Linda J. (LeBaron) Blanchette.

Born in Acushnet, he was the son of the late Norman and Claire (Maynard) Blanchette. Mr. Blanchette was a graduate of New Bedford High School and was a member of the New Bedford High School Sports Hall of Fame for football.

After serving in the U.S. Army during Vietnam, he graduated from Vespar George School of Art in Boston. He worked for many years as a freelance commercial artist. Mr. Blanchette was also an author of children’s books and wrote the Pockets Malone book series along with the book Xicu for the New Bedford Whaling Museum where he also volunteered as a docent.

A prolific artist and illustrator, Mr. Blanchette enjoyed painting, woodcarving, scrimshaw and drawing caricatures. He also was the host of his own public access television show, Drawing with Dave.

Survivors include his wife, Linda; his daughter, Megan F. Boutin and her husband Michael of W. Wareham; his son, David L. Blanchette and his wife Mary of Broomfield, CO; his sisters, Jeanne Butler and Michelle Spink both of Mattapoisett; and his grandchildren, Sophia Blanchette, Ruby Blanchette, Madison Boutin and Sawyer Boutin.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, October 24, 2019 at the New Bedford Whaling Museum, 18 Johnny Cake Hill, New Bedford at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his memory may be made to the New Bedford Whaling Museum, 18 Johnny Cake Hill, New Bedford, MA 02740. For directions and on-line guestbook visit: www.ccgfuneralhome.com