Thomas R. Blandford

Thomas R. Blandford, 75, of Carmel passed away July 17, 2022.  He was born April 19, 1947, in Indianapolis, the son of the late Thomas S. Blandford and M. Jean (Byers) Blandford.  On June 20, 1970, he married Ann Feeney.

Tom enjoyed a Parochial education at Little Flower Grade School and Scecina Memorial High School from which he made the very best lifelong friendships of David Pickhardt, John Edson, and Jim Heffernan.  He was a member of the “Indiana Rangers”, the Indiana National Guard unit that served in Vietnam in 1968-1969.  He was awarded the Silver Star, Bronze Star, CIB, and Air Medal.  He was a former President of the Co. D (Ranger), 151^st Infantry Association and their Unit Representative to the 75^th Ranger Regiment Association.  He was a member of the Carmel VFW where he served as a three-time Post Commander, American Legion, and the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church.  He was awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash and the 2021 VFW State Service Office of the Year. He was the Director of Purchasing for the Gene B. Click Co. for 25 years.  He was happiest when he was with his family and close friends.

He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Ann Blandford; three beloved children, Eve (Ken) Smith, Martin Blandford, and Allyson Blandford; four grandchildren who adored their Papa, Andrew Smith, Jonah Smith, Addison Smith, and Jude Smith; and sister-in-law, Julianne Blandford.  He was preceded in passing his brother, Timothy Blandford; sister, Nancy Blandford; and his stepmother, Karen Blandford.

Although he desired a Viking Warrior’s funeral at sea, that wasn’t possible so the alternative plan is a memorial gathering will be from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. Friday, July 22, 2022, at Flanner Buchanan – Carmel, 325 East Carmel Drive.  Military honors will be rendered at 3:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.  A Celebration of Life will follow at 3:30 p.m. Friday, July 22, 2022, at the Ritz Charles, 12156 North Meridian Street.  Memorial contributions may be directed to the Wounded Warrior Project.  Online condolences may be shared by visiting www.flannerbuchanan.com.