BLAIR: Dale
Dale was born July 3, 1940 on the family farm at Drake, SK and passed away peacefully surrounded by family October 23, 2014. He grew up on the family farm across the road from his cousins: Sid, Bill and Joanne Blair. Dale received his education at Bloomfield Elementary School and Lanigan Central High School. He received his Diploma of Agriculture from the University of Saskatchewan. He married Janet Marshall on April 13, 1963 in Humboldt, SK. They spent their first winter in Fort St. John where he worked on the rigs and Janet nursed. They moved home to the family farm in the spring of 1964 where they raised their four children: Scott, Darren, Craig and Lisa. Dale will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 51 years, Janet, and family: Scott (Calla) Blair, Cameron, Nolan, Maguire; Darren (Deb) Blair, Tyler, Megan; Craig (Chara) Blair, Lauren, Baxter; and Lisa (Mike) Gebhard, Jaycee, Cassidy (Josh) and great-grand daughter Bria. He is also survived by his brother, Ron (Connie) Blair, sisters Betty (Jack) Shields, Heather (Dale) Blair, sisters-in-law Lynne Blair, Ruth (Jake) Bergen, Mary Ann Anderson and Gladys Marshall; aunts Grace Strong and Connie (Bob) Nelson; and thirteen nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Sandy and Ida Blair, brother Gilbert Blair and brothers-in-law, Jack Anderson and George Marshall. Dale enjoyed spending his days at the farm and loved being involved in all aspects of agriculture. He was a member of numerous boards and committees involving his community, agriculture, politics and sports. He devoted countless hours to these passions. He was a dedicated friend and cherished those relationships. Family gatherings were a great source of enjoyment for Dale, especially if involving the grandchildren. He took a lot of pride in their many achievements and enjoyed every minute spent with them. He was a strong believer in working hard and enjoying life to the fullest. He instilled a good work ethic in his children and grandchildren. He was known for his sharp wit, telling stories and his sense of humor which he passed on to his family. The family would like to thank all those who cared for Dale's health and supported him during this past year's battle with cancer. A memorial service took place at the Drake Community Centre, Drake, Saskatchewan on Wednesday, October 29th at 2:00 pm. Officiating the service was Jeanette Warrian. Honorary pallbearers were: Don McArthur,Don Campbell,Blain Keeler, Bill McQueen,Donna Balon,Lloyd Anderson, andDoug Bartel. Register attendants were: Ida McLaren,Darlene Bartel, Cheri Wildeman,Barb Gibney. The eulogy was given by Brad Wildeman. The ushers were: Larry Balon,Rocky Gibney, Jack Gibney, and Henry Bergen. The pianist was Joanne Bergen and the piper was Jim Beebe. A private family interment took place in Lanigan Cemetery prior to the Memorial Service. A Memorial Luncheon also took place in the Drake Community Centre immediately following the service. For those so wishing to send donations to Lanigan Hospital, Box 609, Lanigan, SK S0K 2M0or STARS, Box 570, 1441 Aviation Park N. E. Calgary, Alberta, T2E 8M7,would be appreciated. For online condolences, tributes or to make a donation please visit .
