Rose Blanchette

It is with heavy hearts we announce the peaceful passing of Rose Blanchette in the care of Algonquin Grace Hospice in Huntsville on April 2, 2024. Reunited with the love of her life and husband of 50 years, Armand Blanchette, the family is brought comfort knowing she is dancing with him and her loved ones on the other side. 

Rose was the loving mother to Sharon (Gary) Burgess, Tim (Cindy) Thompson, Deb (Chris) Knobelsdorf, and Judith Blanchette. Cherished grandmother of Amy (Joel) Jones, Cassandra (Jared) Thompson, Thai Green, Kira Henry, Sequoia (Megan) Henry, and predeceased by her dear grandsons Kyle Knobelsdorf and Michael Vollans. Treasured Gigi to Kai, Neveah, Wren, Tate and Noah. Devoted daughter to her late parents Alfred and Florence Simons and sister of her late siblings Ruby, Ruth and Sonny. Cherished friend to many.

Rose was a tenacious and driven business woman. She was a force to be reckoned with - full of ideas and ambition. Born in Toronto, she was a prolific pianist in her youth and adept ice skater. With three young children, Rose became a single working mother and her knack with numbers led her into accounting and provided for her family. In 1970, a handsome dark haired man walked into her life, and she turned the page into a new chapter. Armand, the love of her life, became a father to her children, and they welcomed Judith into the family in 1972. 

After cottaging in Huntsville for many years they purchased Westside Variety store in 1979.  After realizing that the west end of town was in need of restaurants, Rose with her bright ideas led the family to start a take-out menu within the store. Owning a fish and chip restaurant had been a long-time dream of hers and her old family fish batter recipe was a hit and continues to be today. The popularity grew, and eventually a sit-down restaurant was opened in 1983. Co-owning Westside Fish and Chips with her daughter Deb was her legacy, and a great source of pride and joy. She loved to line the shelves with teapots and share meals with friends and family. 

Rose was a talented cook and better baker. The family loved to gather for holidays and meals (notably Thanksmas). Family dinners brought a great deal of laughter and joy, friendly arguments about who was the chosen one, and a bond that filled the grandchildrens childhood with wonderful memories. Rose took great care in her home, self and those around her. She was an avid shopper with a love for a great deal, something she shared with her firstborn Sharon. 

Rose and Armand lived a life of adventure and fun, with many businesses, properties, homes and motorhomes. They traveled to many countries together collecting cherished friendships along the way. Their travels always led them back to Florida, where they eventually spent their winter months in ORO, a cherished community they shared with Tim and Cindy, and many lifelong friends. 

Losing Armand, was a difficult chapter to close on Rose’s life. She missed him dearly. She continued to find joy in her family, newest role as Gigi, and was cared for by her daughter and “person” Judith in her final years.

She will be missed by many and has left a great mark and legacy as the matriarch of her family. 

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, April 9 at Billingsley Funeral Home from 6:00-8:00pm and 10:00-11:00 am on Wednesday April 10.  The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, April 10 at Billingsley Funeral Home at 11:00am.  Funeral service officiated by Evelyn Coker. Reception to follow.  Although flowers are wonderful to receive, memorial donations to Algonquin Grace Hospice in Huntsville would be appreciated.  Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com