John Francis Blanche

You know that feeling when you walk into a crowded room and look around to see who is there, and your eyes settle on someone whom you're just thrilled to see? For everyone lucky enough to know him, that person was John Blanche. John was a big guy, and not just in stature. He had a big personality, a booming voice, and a gregarious laugh that came out often and easily. He was quick with a high five that bordered on aggressive and doled out bear hugs for any occasion. He passionately loved music and listened to it at full volume, as it was clearly meant to be heard. John was big, loud, tough, nurturing, gentle, and tenderhearted all at the same time.

John was born on May 9, 1959, to Joseph and Lorene Blanche. As a young adult, John proudly served in the military for seven years. Part of that time was spent stationed in Germany, kicking off a lifelong love of travel. When he returned to civilian life, he built a career as an automotive service manager, most recently working with his dear friend Keegan at MCCJ Auto Group. He loved his job, but all who knew him understood that it fit him so well because he loved helping people. John truly lived a life of service to others. In his spare time, John enjoyed spending time with friends and family, landscaping, and the movie What About Bob? more than anyone really should. He was an avid fan of the Iowa State Cyclones, holding season tickets to football with family for many years.

John left this world due to cardiac arrest while vacationing with some of his favorite people. He spent his last day filled with joy and laughter, beaches, cigars, and cocktails, and he wouldn't have wanted it any other way. Although one can imagine him saying with his trademark dry wit, he would have preferred it had been a few years later. John was never ready for the party to end.

John was preceded in death by his son, Jimmy Joe Blanche, parents, Joseph and Lorene Blanche, nephew, Matthew Blanche, sister-in-law, Nancy Blanche, and brother-in-law, William Shortell. Left to miss him always are his partner, Carol Guetschow, granddaughter, Nadia Blanche, siblings, Robert (Denise) Blanche, James (Anna) Blanche, Catherine (Don) Krueger, Patrick Blanche, Thomas (Jackie Avery Massey) Blanche, Mary (Will) McKnight, Sharon (Neal) Von Ahsen, nieces and nephews, Emily (Dean), Shannon (Zachary), Scott (Betsy), Brian (Amy), Nick (Ali), Mark (Tara), Brad (Catherine), Casey (Iana), Jessica (Brian), Julia, Joseph, Adam, Amanda (Joseph), Ryan (Sara), Daniel (Keela), Catherine (Don), and Carol's granddaughter, Breanna Varnadore, along with countless other family members and friends.

A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines, IA 50309. Following the service, a Celebration of Life will take place from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Noce, 1326 Walnut Street, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA 50309. John will be interred at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Iowa Veterans Cemetery or the Des Moines Area Community College Automotive program.

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