Obituary of Peter Durang Blanchard

Peter Durang Blanchard, a lifelong New Jersey resident, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 16, 2023 due to complications related to Parkinson’s Disease.  Peter fought valiantly for 15 years. He was 81 years old.

Peter was born to Frederick and Charlotte Blanchard on December 6, 1941 in Newark, NJ.  He was raised in Convent Station with his three siblings: brothers David and Rick and sister Nina.  He attended the Peddie School and later went on to the University of Pittsburgh, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in 1963.

After attending college, Peter began his lifelong and distinguished career in commercial real estate.  Peter was well respected and deeply devoted to his work.

Peter played an important role as Partner at The Garibaldi Group, where he contributed significantly to the growth and prosperity of the firm. He earned the utmost respect from his colleagues in the industry and is credited with many of New Jersey’s most significant real estate transactions. Peter specialized in corporate representation throughout the United States and Europe, building strong personal relationships with many of the top corporate real estate directors in the industry.  He deservingly earned a reputation of excellence and leaves behind an impressive legacy that will not be soon forgotten by the friends and colleagues alike with whom he worked. 

Peter was married to his beloved wife Carol, whom he met at the University of Pittsburgh, for 59 years.  The couple was married at Heinz Memorial Chapel and then settled in Convent Station, where they raised their family of four children: sons Peter Jr. and Michael, daughters Stacy and Beth.  Affectionately known as “Pop,” Peter was a doting and joyful grandfather to his eight grandchildren: Jack, Caroline (CC), Lulu, Freddie, Clifford, Cate, Lizzie and Annie.  A true superfan whose family was his greatest joy, he rarely missed a chance to see them play or perform.  Peter was their biggest and most fervent supporter but just as happy to read a story or log a few quiet hours with them on the beach or by the pool.  

Anyone who knew him knew that Peter was a larger-than-life figure and a true one-of-a-kind spirit.  His commitment and love for his family, friends, colleagues, and his community were unwavering. He was kind and generous and full of quick-witted humor, dedicating his time and energy to those he loved.  Peter lived his life to the fullest.  Some of his favorite places included Bay Head, Bermuda, Stratton Mountain, and Europe.  He passionately enjoyed watching sports, traveling the world, fishing, skiing, music, history, reading, and, most importantly, sharing these passions with the people close to him. He also loved spending time with family and friends at The Morris County Golf Club, where he was a proud member for 54 years.

Although Peter will be deeply missed by all, his family takes comfort in knowing that he is at peace.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend a funeral mass for Peter at St. Vincent’s Martyr Church, 26 Green Village Road, Madison, NJ at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, August 29.

In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions may be made in Peter’s memory to the Michael J. Fox Foundation.

Arrangements were under the care of Burroughs, Kohr & Dangler Funeral Home, Madison, NJ.