Eugene D. Blais

Eugene D. ""Gene"" Blais, Sr., 70, of New Milford died Saturday, December 27, 2008 in his home after a brief and brave battle with cancer. Born July 14, 1938 in Grand Rapids, MN, the son of Alfred and Rosa (Roy) Blais. He married Caroline Nice on September 17, 1960. They shared many years on Bonnie Drive, surrounded by warm and caring neighbors. He served for four years in the United States Navy, and was a faithful member of St. Edward Catholic Church. Gene enjoyed helping friends, family and neighbors with any remodeling, welding or handyman projects. There was rarely a task that he could not master with perfection. He was a devoted family man who enjoyed fishing and spending time in the Boundary Waters Area of Northern Minnesota. Survivors include his wife Caroline, his son Gene ""Hoppie"" (Pebbles) Blais of New Milford. Gene held a special place in his heart for his three granddaughters, Brittni, Cayman and Addie. Also survived by brother Lewis (Kitty) Blais of Rockford, sister RoseMae (Lane) Lam of Pittman, NJ, sister Sharon (Flavio) Posse of Rancho Palos Verdes, CA and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents. The family would like to give special thanks to the doctors and staff at the University of Wisconsin in Madison, Northern Illinois Hospice, and the gracious care given by his sister-in-law, Georgiann. The Funeral Mass will be offered by Father Anthony Pantyra at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 30, 2008 in St. Edward Catholic Church. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. Monday, December 29, 2008 in Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., with the rosary to be recited at 7:30 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:00 a.m. Tuesday until time of Mass in the church. Interment to follow in Calvary Catholic Cemetery. To