by Marv Bachrad, publicity director, Dover Downs

Dover, DE — Burton L. Blanch, 82, of Wilmington, Del., a longtime member of the Brandywine Raceway publicity department, died April 30, 2013, after a battle with prostate cancer.

Born in Mt. Carmel, Pa., Mr. Blanch attended schools in Pottsville, Pa., and then served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. After his honorable discharge, Mr. Blanch moved his family to Claymont, Del., in 1954 where he resided for more than three decades. He was a little league coach for a number of years, stressing fundamentals and a positive attitude to his players.

One of his Claymont neighbors, Al Cartwright, a longtime and highly respected Wilmington News Journal sportswriter and sports editor, introduced him to Brandywine Raceway Publicity Director “Colonel” Dave Herman and a 35-year position was born.

He became the Assistant Publicity Director for the “Colonel” and later as press box chief under Marv Bachrad, utilizing his great people skills.

He was awarded the “Good Guy” plaque from the Delaware Valley Chapter of the U.S. Harness Writers Association. On occasion, he enjoyed broadcasting nightly race results on WILM radio. Mr. Blanch juggled several daytime jobs in his life, working at a super market, the U.S. Postal Service and as a general contractor. He retired from Delmarva Power and Light where he worked for 24 years.

Mr. Blanch remained active after retirement by traveling, building projects, attending antique car shows, working bingo at the Veterans hospital, and volunteering for ‘Meals on Wheels.’ He was a longtime member of Elks Lodge #307 and served as its chaplain for 23 years. He made friends easily and kept them forever.

He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Elsie “Skippy” Lyness; her children, Candice and Steve; and by his children, Kathleen (Tacker) Hahn, Patrick, Karleen (Bob) Davis, Michael (Cathy), Terence (Helen), Burton Jr. (Janie), Daniel (Penny), Gregory (Heather), Bret (Chrissy), Brendan (Gwyn) and Kimberly (Phil); 15 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, George; and the mother of his children, Mary.

A viewing will be held on Wednesday (May 8) from 5:30-8 p.m. at the McCrery & Harra Funeral Homes, 3710 Kirkwood Hwy (at Duncan Rd.), Wilmington, Del. and on Thursday (May 9) from 10:15-11:15 a.m. at the funeral home with funeral service to follow at 11:30 a.m. Burial will be in Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963 or Elks Lodge #307, 1310 Carruthers Lane, Wilmington, DE 19803.