It is with heavy hearts that the family of Blanche Perusse announce her passing on May 21st, at the age of 87.
Blanche was born in International Falls, Minnesota in 1938. In her first marriage she was blessed with her oldest children Bradley and Kallie. In her second marriage Blanche found her life long love in Doug Perusse. Soon after marrying, they moved to Edmonton and welcomed their son Robert. After a couple years in Edmonton, the family moved to Thunder Bay where Blanche worked for a long time at Sears before starting Doug’s Coffee Stop alongside her daughter Kallie in the Spence Clinic where her passion for cooking and baking was shared with others.
Blanche was a beloved mother, wife, grandmother and great-grandmother (Gigi) whose greatest joy was undoubtedly spending time with family. Family dinners and visits from her granddaughters Kristina and Karlie and great daughters Savannah, Noa and Lucy were highlights that left her smiling for days. She could usually be found in the kitchen baking until late at night. She always made her family laugh at her small appetite for dinner but huge appetite for dessert. Together, Blanche and Doug enjoyed road trips to Grand Portage, coffee at Robins, time spent in the garden and baking. Throughout ups and downs, the love between Blanche and Doug was unwavering and endured for more than 60 years. Their love was never stronger than in the days before her passing when Blanche awoke or responded only to the sound of Doug’s voice as he lovingly cared for her.
She is survived by her loving and dedicated husband Doug, her children Bradley (Deb) of Wisconsin, Kallie (Greg), and Robert, grandchildren Kristina (Jordan), Karlie (Ti), Azure, Parker and Taylor, great grandchildren Savannah, Noa and Lucy. She leaves her family with fond memories of love, her fighting and feisty spirit, her full cookie jars, her holidays sweaters, and her dedication to family. She will be greatly missed.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the incredible ER team, the nurses and doctors on 2C at the TBRHSC, as well as in the Palliative Care unit at St. Joseph’s Hospital who compassionately cared for Blanche.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
