In Memory of Blanche Edna Vanderzell

Obituary

Blanche Edna Vanderzell

It is with great sadness that the family of Blanche Edna Vanderzell announces the passing of their beloved matriarch on September 29, 2026, just 10 days short of her 102nd birthday. She had been a resident at the Masonic Care Community.

Blanche was born on October 9, 1924, in St. Quentin, New Brunswick, Canada. Her parents were Roland and Marie Anne Pelletier Sirois. She was predeceased by her husband of 72 years, Clarence James Vanderzell, in 2019. They met at Presque Isle Air Force Base in Maine as they both responded to the WWII efforts. Her ability to speak both English and French fluently quickly became an important asset to the base commander. She had been a 63 year resident of Whitesboro and then Utica. She retired from Marine Midland Bank as head of the proof department in 1982.

Blanche is survived by her sons, George (Sandy) and Robert (Debbie) Vanderzell, and her daughter Barbara Cave (Edward). She will be dearly missed by them, her 9 grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be on Saturday, November 7, at 10:00 am in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Interment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Arrangements are with Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, 13 Oxford Rd., New Hartford.

For online expressions of sympathy go to fwefh.com.