Matthew Colton Blanchard

Matthew (Pickard) Blanchard, son of Dianna Pickard, passed away in his mother’s arms on Thursday, April 7, 2016 at Bronson at Home Hospice Residence in Battle Creek, Michigan. Matthew was 11 weeks, 5 days old.  He was born January 16 at Lakeland in St. Joseph.  He was a miracle and a fighter.  He loved being held, rocking in his swing and being read and sang to.  Matthew’s favorite book was Brown Bear Brown Bear.  Matthew was a gift from God. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1:00 PM Saturday, April 16, 2016 at Overflow Church, 300 East Napier Ave. Benton Harbor, with Rev. Brian Bennett officiating. Friends may visit with the family from 12:00 PM until the time of the service. There will be a place for you to share a memory of how Matthew affected your life. There will be a balloon release following the service.  Memorial contributions may be made to the family, in care of Dianna Pickard. Those wishing to leave an online condolence for Matthew may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.    He is survived by his mother, Dianna Pickard of Benton Harbor; grandparents, Paula & Ken Pickard of Benton Harbor; Uncle Steven (Unc Unc) Pickard of Benton Harbor, along with many other relatives. The family finds peace in knowing Matthew is being held by Our Ultimate Father until they meet again.