Jon A. Blanchette

Many of you knew Jon as a brilliant mechanical engineer, a dedicated family man, and someone who could never sit still – always finding joy in bringing old machines back to life. Born and raised right here in Rochester, Jon's passion for restoration began early, and anyone who knew him can tell you about the pride he took in his award-winning restorations: a 1916 Cadillac, a 1914 Model T, and a 1953 Corvette prototype.

After graduating from RIT in 1956, Jon answered the call to serve our country, spending five years on active duty in the Navy, including several tours in Japan. He continued serving in the reserves until 1980, all while building a 34-year career at General Motors.

But perhaps the most important restoration project of Jon's life wasn't a car at all – it was a Model T Ford owned by a mutual friend that led him to meet the love of his life, Beverly. They married in 1966, made their home in Fairport, and in 1971, welcomed their beloved daughter Sharon into the world.

You might think that retirement would have slowed Jon down, but those who knew him know better. At 60 years old, when most people are thinking about taking it easy, Jon took on what might have been his most ambitious project yet – the restoration of a Polish MiG fighter jet. It took him 15 years, but that beautiful machine eventually graced the skies at airshows across the country.

In recent years, Jon and Beverly spent their winters in Fort Myers, Florida, where Jon did what he loved most – soaking up the sun and heat he so enjoyed, staying active, and connecting with friends and family. Back home, you could often find him tending to his property with the same meticulous care he brought to all his projects. As he would say, it wasn't work to him – it was play.

Jon approached life with discipline and care, from his dedication to exercise and healthy eating to the fairness and kindness he showed to everyone he met. But what truly defined Jon was his love for his family. To Beverly, his wife of many years; to Sharon and her husband David; and to his granddaughter Aimee – Jon's love and dedication knew no bounds.

As we bid farewell to Jon today, we remember a man who never stopped learning, creating, and caring for others. His legacy lives on not just in the machines he brought back to life, but in the lives he touched and the love he shared with all of us.

Jon, you will be deeply missed, but your spirit of determination, creativity, and kindness will continue to inspire us all. May you rest in peace, knowing that the world is a better place because you were in it.

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