Howard Durand Blanding II, 94, was born on Sept. 13, 1928, in St. Croix Falls, and died peacefully on April 30, 2023.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Mary Ellen Louise (Peterson); father, Howard Durand Blanding; mother, Ella Maria (Bergh) Blanding; and sisters, Jean Smith and Beth Cobb.
Survivors include sons, Howard Durand Blanding III and William Robert (Pam) Blanding; daughter, Mary Beth (Mo) Blanding; grandchildren, Katherine, Lauren, Britta, Nicholas, Margaret and Beau Blanding; and many more relatives and friends.
Durand attended the University of Wisconsin and obtained his degree in business administration. Upon graduation he enlisted in the Army. During the Korean War, Durand served his country in the Counter Intelligence Corps in Japan. After the war, he attended the University of Wisconsin Law School and practiced law for over 40 years in St. Croix Falls. Active in Delta Sigma Pi Business and Phi Alpha Delta Law fraternities, he relished memories made in Madison and remained a proud Badger. A history buff, he was very involved in the St. Croix Falls Historical Society until his death.
Durand was also instrumental in rebuilding the First Presbyterian Church after a fire. He was an active member of the American Legion Post 143. Durand enjoyed all things outdoors, daily swims in Deer Lake, canoeing Wisconsin rivers, and walks at Interstate Park with family. He was a lifelong fan of the Badgers, Packers and the Brewers. He loved his family, and was very proud of his grandchildren and their accomplishments. Kindness, great stories, good humor and generosity are some of the many reasons Durand will be remembered.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 18, at First Presbyterian Church, 719 Nevada St., St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin, with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Private interment will be at the St. Croix Cemetery. Luncheon will follow at the American Legion Club, St. Croix Falls. Memorials are preferred to the St. Croix Falls Historical Society. Arrangements were made through the Grandstrand Funeral Home in Osceola, Wisconsin. Condolences may be expressed online at grandstrandfh.com.
