It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Allison Margaret Blanchard, who was born on March 10, 1939, in Baldur, Manitoba, and passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, in Grande Prairie, Alberta, after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease at the age of 87 years.

Allison began her working life as a telephone operator in Manitoba. At just 18 years old, she married the love of her life, Joe, and together they embarked on a lifetime of adventure, hard work, and unwavering devotion to one another. As they raised their young family, they lived in Saskatoon, Edmonton, the Northwest Territories, and Pipestone, Manitoba, where they owned and operated Gemmill's Hardware for several years before eventually settling in Grande Prairie, Alberta.

In Grande Prairie, Allison worked for Swan Buses before joining Joe in running Smokey's Catering, where she managed the books and willingly took on whatever job needed to be done. Their hard work was rewarded with countless friendships and treasured memories made through the Grande Prairie Curling Club, the Legion, and the Grande Prairie Country Club.

While Allison worked tirelessly alongside Joe, her greatest accomplishment was always her family. She raised her three children with unconditional love, guidance, and discipline, creating a home filled with warmth, laughter, and lasting traditions. Family was always her highest priority.

To her grandchildren, she was simply "Gma." They will forever remember visits filled with her famous snappy cookies, her many memorable sayings, including "IGNORANT," and the playful teasing she enjoyed so much. Her love, sense of humour, and unwavering support created memories that will be treasured for generations.

She leaves behind her loving daughters, Tracy and Andrea (Darren); her cherished grandchildren, Adam (Maddy), Kate (Marc), Jack (Brooke), Tanner (Alexis), Gabrielle (Andy), and Jordana (Xavier); her great-grandchildren, Levi, Lainey, and Iverson; her brother, Blake Gemmill (Olga); her sisters, Mary Jean Usunier and Patricia Matthews (Bob); as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

Allison was predeceased by her beloved husband of 60 years, Joe Blanchard; her son, Tim Blanchard; and her son-in-law, Gary.

The last five years of Allison's life were spent at Prairie Lake Seniors Community, where the compassionate staff came to know and love her. Their kindness, care, and friendship brought comfort not only to Allison but to her entire family, and they became an extension of that family during her final years. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Prairie Lake for the exceptional care and compassion they showed Allison throughout her journey.

A celebration of Allison's life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Allison's memory to an Alzheimer Society of your choice.

Though Alzheimer's gradually stole her memories, it could never diminish the love she shared so freely throughout her life. Allison will be remembered for her strength, her devotion to family, her generous heart, and the joy she brought to everyone fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always.