Blair, much-loved husband, father, grandfather – and simply a prince of a man – died on October 15, 2019. Born the youngest of three siblings, sister Joyce Anderson and brother Glenn (deceased), Blair arrived in Yellow Grass, SK, on January 23, 1933, and remained hometown proud his entire life. While most accountants choose their profession, Blair, it seems, was born an accountant. He began his life-long affair with the art of finance at age 8 when he started his first job; delivering eggs by bicycle. In addition to having a strong work ethic, Blair was also athletically accomplished, talented at both hockey and baseball. At the University of Saskatchewan, Blair earned a B.Comm. After graduation, Blair and his “darling” Joyce (nee Nolte), his high school sweetheart and the love of his life settled in Regina where he articled and completed his CA. They lived there for 10 years where they became parents to daughters Susan Dunsmore (Doug Gowland) of Cleveland, OH, and Karen Nielson (Lorne) of Point Roberts, WA. In 1965, opportunity knocked and the family relocated to Saskatoon. As anyone who knew Blair could tell you, Joyce and their two girls were the center of his universe, which later expanded to include grandchildren Spencer (23), Isabella (19), and Jack (18). During his 86 years, Blair never made an enemy or raised his voice in anger. He was a gentle soul, a sterling role model for his children and grandchildren, as well as someone whom everyone liked to be around. He was known for his sweet smile, joking nature, and the amusing anecdotes he told about childhood escapades, always with a twinkle in his eye. Proud of his many nieces and nephews, Blair enjoyed nothing more than employing his keen wit to engage all in good-natured ribbing. With Blair gone, the world is now short one sharp-dressing, seasoned world traveler with exceptional gardening and handyman skills. Blair approached gardening with the same precision he applied to his accounting, and his trees were always meticulously trimmed, and his flower beds flawlessly aligned. Perhaps even more sorely missed will be Blair’s ability to fix anything and everything and his knack for always having the right tool needed at any time. Blair strived to bequeath his talents to his girls and took pride in stocking their toolboxes and making sure they could balance a cheque book. Never will you meet a man who more faithfully lived his values and no man will be more greatly missed.
Please join us for a Celebration of Blair’s Life on Friday, December 20th,2019, at 11:00 am in Cadboro Bay United Church, 2625 Arbutus Road, with a reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family would ask that you contribute to the BC Heart & Stroke Foundation or the charity of your choice.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
15 Responses
Joyce and family: I am very sorry to hear of Blair’s passing. It was always nice to be with Blair. In the relatively short time that we worked together he was always considerate and kind to everyone. Keep well and enjoy your memories. Ray Richards
Dear Susan
Our sincerest condolences to you and your family. It’s been many years since you and your parents lived in Saskatoon but we know your Dad is remembered in the community with much affection.
We send our love and prayers to you and hope sometime we can reconnect.
With love, Betty Anne and Bob Stevenson
Blair was a true Rotarian in everything he did. Soft spoken but straight ahead and concise in his thinking. A great companion at every meeting, a true gentleman in every respect. My contact with him was always a pleasure and I was honoured to call him a friend.
He will be missed but he will always be remembered by his colleagues at Rotary.
Dear Joyce and Family:
It was sad news to learn that Blair had passed and we extend our sincere sympathy. He was a very special
person, kind and gentle. He will be missed by many but happy memories will remain. The Obit expressed the high regard in which Blair was held and how he lived his life. A good man from Saskatchewan.
Roy,Elaine,Cheryl and Gord
Dearest Joyce, Susan, Karen and families. This write up for your Dad was so bang on! Such a wonderful, lovely, hardworking man and I had the pleasure of knowing he and Joyce the last 10 years and helping them with their many travel adventures! May your memories of Blair bring you smiles and warmth in your hearts for years to come. Hugs to you all. Love Angela
Joyce and Family: I was very sorry to read about the passing of Blair. We had just been out to Vancouver to visit Ray and Joan Richards and we were wondering about Blair. I enjoyed working with him in Regina and he started me in collecting coins etc. which I am still doing.
I have several advertising pieces from Sterling Hardware and think of him and his time there.
Our families had many good times together.
My thoughts are with you all.
Ron Rogal
Joyce, Susan and Karen.
Received the news this week and read Blair’s obit this morning, splendid collection of words for a great man. I will cherish our memories. Barb and my condolences to you all.
Our thoughts are with you, Brian
My heart goes out to the family of this lovely man! Keep all the wonderful memories of him in your heart.
Sincere sympathies to Susan, Karen and Joyce and your extended families – I hope you all feel surrounded by much love and pray that warm memories will sustain you in your time of grief. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Joyce and family, our prayers and thoughts are with all of you at this difficult time. Blair was a very special person , leaving many happy memories for us.
We all send our love.
Gordon, Agnes and family