Sr. Katherine Blanchard, IHM, died March 20, 2021, at the IHM Senior Living Community in Monroe. She was 70 years old.
Sister Kathy, as she was known, was born in Monroe, Mich., on May 3, 1950 to parents Andrew and Rita Marie (Shelle) Blanchard. Attending St. Michael grade school and graduating from St. Mary Academy, she came to know many IHM Sisters. She entered the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Monroe in 1981.
Sister Kathy earned a bachelor’s degree from Marygrove College where art was her major study. She also studied theology at Sacred Heart Seminary and earned certification in Activity Therapy in Gerontology. Her career at Marygrove College first began as a student, then as faculty before moving into what would become a 25-plus year tenure in the creative work of graphic arts and publications. After several years as assistant director of publications, she became director in 1995. Throughout the latter 15 years at Marygrove College, she specialized in graphic design, leading projects, staff and students to strive to shine the light on Marygrove.
When health issues led her to leave Marygrove and her home in the Detroit area, she relocated to IHM Senior Living Community. She participated in the fellowship of the community, opportunities for spiritual growth, retreats and daily activities.
Sister Katherine is survived by sisters, Theresa Ashwood and Miriann Cooch; brothers William, Gerald and John; and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by brother Charles.
Visitation will be held Thursday, March 25, beginning at 5 p.m. at Sacred Heart Chapel on the Marygrove Campus, Detroit. A prayer service will follow at 7 p.m. Masks and social distancing for COVID protocols will be followed.
Because of COVID-19 restrictions, services will be private at the IHM Motherhouse Chapel on Friday, March 26. The services will be Livestreamed beginning at 9:30 a.m. at http://bit.ly/2NKZ2L4 and may be viewed until April 16. Arrangements are under the direction of the Rupp Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the IHM Retirement Fund, 610 W. Elm Ave., Monroe, MI 48162-7909.
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