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, Susan & Karen
I was so sorry to hear of Blair’s passing. When I lived above you at 660 Sask Crescent I always treasured the friendship of the family. I have so often thought of you all, with fond memories.
I can still hear Blair’s voice as we all talked standing in the (curvy!) stairwell, and support for any of our needs. A wonderful,caring man.
Brenda (Dash) Milne
Joyce and Family –
Blair was a fine gentleman and a loyal Rotarian – he will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Please accept our sincere condolences.
Jacqui and Murray Ramsbottom
Dear Susan, Doug, Spencer & family,
Our condolences to you and your family at the passing away of your much beloved father. We know how very much he meant to you and we are thankful that you had a few more months of precious time after being so close to losing him earlier.
The written tribute was heartwarming and described a wonderful man of integrity who deeply loved his family and was a pleasure to be around.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Love, Lars, Marion, Geoff & Max
Dear Joyce
My deepest sympathy on the loss of Blair.I did not know him well but he was always so open and welcoming when ever our paths crossed. He will be greatly missed by you and your family
My thoughts and prayers are with you
Linnea Fouracre
I was so saddened to hear about the passing of my friend and fellow Rotarian Blair. We got along very well, and used to share stories about our travels. As you said, a gentle man who never offended anyone. I only wish that more people were like him.
He will be missed.