Clarence Richard Blaine age 99 of Grand Rapids passed away peacefully at River Grand on September 3, 2024.

Clarence was the son of James Blaine, Sr. and Olive Blaine (Simpson). He was born on February 6, 1925 in Calumet MN and grew up in Pengilly MN. After graduating from Greenway High School, he enlisted into the US Marine Corp during WWII. He served as a sergeant from 1943-1946 in the South Pacific, Philippines and completed his tour in Tsingtao, China.

Upon his return from the war, Clarence met Vyone Harwood, the love of his life, at a Greenway H.S. basketball game. They were wed June 1947 and married for 68 ½ years until Vyone's passing in 2016.

Clarence worked at Blandin Paper Company for 41 years, starting his career as laborer and retiring as VP of Operations in 1988. During their retirement Clarence and Vyone spent their winters in Arizona enjoying the sunny weather with friends and family.

Clarence was Mason of Itasca Lodge 208, a Royal Arch Mason of Pokegama Chapter 102, a member of Shrine AAD Temple, and the Royal Order of Jesters. In addition, he was a member of the North Star Shrine Cycle Patrol and Mustang Patrol. Clarence also served 18 years on the Police Civil Service Commission for the City of Grand Rapids.

Clarence is survived by his son Corby (Diana) Blaine of Grand Rapids, MN; daughters Char (Pat) Guddal of St. Louis Park, MN; and Cynthia (Jerry) Yamarino of Anthem, AZ; his brother James Blaine, Jr. of Pengilly MN, sister Doreen (Roger) Rice of Hibbing MN; 4 grandchildren Chris (Maisie) Blaine, Chad Blaine, Chelsea Steber, and Gillian Guddal; 3 great-grandchildren, Chase Blaine, Liberty (Adam) Schroeder, and Carter Blaine; great-great grandchild Kylee Rae Schroeder.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Grand Rapids on October 11th from 12:00-2:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Second Harvest Northland or Northland Honor Flight.