Robert L. Blais, Jr.

 Robert “Bob” L. Blais, Jr., a longtime resident of Bedford, NH, passed away on November 7, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

 Born in Manchester, NH, on July 19, 1950, Bob was the eldest of six children of the late Robert and Adrienne (Carrier) Blais. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business from New Hampshire College, now Southern New Hampshire University.

 Bob was a dedicated distributor and owner of a Pepperidge Farm biscuit franchise. His 50-year journey began alongside his father, learning and working with him, eventually leading to Bob owning his own route. He retired in 2014, having left a warm impression on everyone he encountered, and treasured these friendships.

 An avid outdoorsman, Bob loved hiking, backpacking, and camping. He proudly achieved the rank of Eagle Scout and served as an assistant scoutmaster for his son Christopher’s Boy Scout Troop #414. Scouting had a profound impact on Bob’s life, equipping him with invaluable skills he used throughout his life.

 Bob shared his passion for the outdoors with the Bedford School District, volunteering annually for an outdoor experience on his favorite mountain, Mt. Cardigan. This three-day campout for local children introduced them to hiking, backpacking, and wilderness safety skills.

Family was central to Bob’s life. He cherished the moments and memories with his children and grandchildren and will be remembered above all as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, and mentor.

 Bob is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Jane (Nault) Blais; his two children, Lisa Cote and her husband Layton, and Christopher Blais; two grandchildren, Christian and Giulia; five siblings, Joanne Barter, Paul Blais, Diane Blais, John Blais and his wife MaryLynn, and Michelle Blais; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

 Bob deeply appreciated the outstanding care he received from Dr. Douglas Weckstein, Dr. Evan Smith, and the Fitch Unit staff at Elliot Hospital. He encourages those able to donate blood to the American Red Cross, a cause that sustained him through his illness.

 SERVICES: Calling hours will be held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at Lambert Funeral Home & Crematory, 1799 Elm St., at the corner of North St., Manchester, NH 03104. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at St. Elizabeth Seton Church, 190 Meetinghouse Rd., Bedford, NH 03110.

 In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Solinsky Center for Cancer Care at Elliot Hospital, 1 Elliot Way, Manchester, NH 03103, or to Scouting America, c/o Camp Carpenter, 300 Blondin Rd., Manchester, NH 03109.