Florence Anne Blanchard

Florence Anne Mortensen Blanchard was born on Nov. 8, 1932, to Dr. Elmer and Elizabeth Mortensen in the Santa Monica CA hospital which was built by her Grandfather Dr. William S Mortensen. She was delivered by that grandfather. She was the eldest of Four children.

As a child, Florence loved adventure and could often be found climbing high in the neighborhood trees. She loved books and often could be found reading under the covers long after bedtime. At one time she and her younger sister spent many days trying to dig an area in their backyard to Create an inground swimming pool. That was later turned into an actual pool.

After graduating from Santa Monica High School, she attended the University of Miami where she met and married William Blanchard.

Florence died peacefully in her sleep on May 29, 2023, while being cared for by her daughter, Cheryl Hancock in Show low Arizona.

She was a loving Mother and devoted Wife. Florence was a “giving person” and a “forgiving person.” She saw the best in everyone and was a joy to be with. She was a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church.

When her four children were young, Florence obtained a degree in Elementary Education and taught for many years in the California Public Schools System.

Florence and her husband Bill realized their lifelong dream of a home in Maui HI when they purchased a condo there just steps from the beach. They spent several years enjoying stays there until the trip became too difficult for them to travel. They were then happy to share their condo with relatives and friends who greatly appreciated their generosity. Florence spent several Years Caring for Bill while his health declined. He passed away on December 18, 2012.

Florence was preceded in death by her husband, William Blanchard and daughter, Laurel Acosta.

She is survived by her children, William E. Blanchard of Show Low, Cheryl Hancock, Show Low and James Blanchard of Cincinnati, Ohio; and her Siblings; Betsy (Dave) Johnston, Stewart (Lois) Mortensen and Steve (Cindy) Mortensen, Eight Grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.