10 years and still think of you Blair, you were a great coach and teacher

Blair,

5 years now…I still cry as much now as I did then.

Still have yet to remove your phone number from my cell phone.

Miss you buddy.

Ack

Blair was the big brother that I never had. I miss him. He is truly someone that cannot be replaced. He has touched and influenced everyone that he met. Blair was someone that I could talk to about anything. And, he somehow always gave me the answer. I don’t know how he did it, he just did. Anyone who knew Blair knows what I’m talking about.

My thoughts and prayers to Andy, Vivian and Warren.

I have learned of Blair’s passing only recently when I ran into a mutual acquaintance and I was truly effected by his passing. I first met Blair in Brandon many years ago and had re-acquainted in Calgary a few times. He was always a bright light and as someone put it, had a postive aura around him. He always had time for everyone and truly made the world a better place. It is often said that God takes the “Angel’s” first and I believe that in this case. Rest in peace my friend, you left the world a better place with your inspiration!

I am so sorry to hear of Blair’s passing. Andy, Vivian and Warren, you are in my thoughts and prayers.

He will fondly be remembered by me as a good friend, someone who was supportive and really meant it when he asked ‘how are you’. He had a contagious smile, a great chuckle, and boy was he a relentless teaser! I last saw him at the Souris homecoming in ’06, same smile, same Blair. He has no doubt touched thousands of lives and will be missed always. I am thankful for having known him.

I’m very sorry to hear about the loss of such a fine man. I am a night time custodian at Rundle College and had the priviledge to know him and to share a few laughs and such. I hope God has a place for him in Paradise on the New Earth. Amen.

I just found out that Blair has passed, and I am very sorry to hear this. My condolences.

I would like to share my own story about Blair. Many people have spoken of his energy and enthusiasm and his positive influence. As a testament to that I only worked with Blair for about a month, as a teacher on the west side of Calgary, in 1997. He was 39. That’s all it took to become aware and moved by his aura, which radiated strength and an uncompromising truth to his values that I had not known before or since. We were in a difficult setting for teachers.

Within the first few days of teaching, I saw him address some of the school thugs, and I mean actual criminals. They were sitting on the floor, and he squatted down, looked each in the eye, and with complete confidence he said, “I am not afraid of you. If you think you can intimidate me, you are wrong”. His command of this group was impressive.

At one point during a football unit in physed, I happened to witness two teenage boys who tried to clock Blair with the football by ‘accidentally’ overthrowing the ball. They were testing Blair. Blair was preoccupied with another student and was turned sideways to the culprits. They whipped the ball and from the corner of his eye with amazing reflexes, Blair moved his head and caught the ball! There was a hush in the gym. Blair knew instantly what went down, and with calm he said something like, “Be careful fellas”. Then with no effort he absolutely rifled the ball back to the boys across the gym. I could actually hear the football humming through the air! It made quite a sound when it hit the student “on the numbers”. I thought: message received! He didn’t just say I’m not intimidated by you, he DID I’m not intimidated by you.

I also saw Blair save a student from harm or worse. The kids were packing things up, including some chairs that would fit on a heavy trolley that rolled under the stage. At one point a ball ended up in behind the trolley, under the stage. One student, unpopular with others and always seeking attention, voluntarily went in to retrieve the ball. He had to fit between supporting bars and other trolleys. Then, two other boys decided to push the heavy trolley into the opening where it would certainly crush the other student with some force, while he was in a vulnerable position. Blair saw this just in time, yelled, “stop”, but was ignored. I saw Blair cover 6 or 7 metres in a split second. He disarmed the two students and stopped the trolley with all his might. It was a close call. Blair should have been acknowledged for his quick thinking. Instead he was questioned. Blair and I were just getting to know each other. He knew I understood the dynamics of the school politics, and he asked me outright what would happen. When I told him that he would not be supported (spin doctors), he promptly handed in his resignation.

He had no fear of change, and was not a slave to the dollar. When push came to shove, he stayed true to his beliefs.

He was on sabatical from Vincent Massey, and thought he would try teaching in this challenging environment. In just a few weeks Blair had made an impact on school bullies and created a safer place for all. But, he left too soon for me, and never knew the impact he had on the staff.

Blair probably doesn’t know this, but on the same day he resigned, the staff went out after school to meet privately as we all felt a profound loss. I sat there and listened to what people were saying, and learned they too were awakened by Blair. He really was a bright light in a dark place.

Thank you Blair.

Blair,

Your passing makes me reflect not only on how much you meant to my career as an athlete but how your tireless effort to everyone you were around was and is truly an inspiration.

From my years as a young player, at your batting cages, at the ballpark, rink, or gym you were always around helping, teaching and most of all caring, and for that I am forever thankful. You will be greatly missed and never forgotten.

Thanks,

Curtis Morrison

Our thoughts and prayers are with you Andy, Vivian, Warren and families. I grew up in Souris as well with the Murray family, on the same street.

Mr. Murray, for all the extra time you spent at the gym letting me practice; I thank you.

The deepest sympathy to the entire Murray family in your loss of Blair. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time.

Blair and I became good friends in school and the news of his passing has been a total shock. We always had a great time playing sports or working out and he will be missed. To Warren and Andy my thoughts are with you.

Truly and great man, I was shocked when I got the phone call. I had the honor have having play softball with Blair the last few years, he was always a positive person in any situation.

Blair was a man who can truly be looked upon as an inspiration to those who knew him. I will always remember working with him at CRC and thinking that he was an amazing man who offered such spirit and humanity to all of us. my prayers go out to the Murray family and all those who knew him. Our CRC family will never be the same without him.

Last Friday will come and go and so will Tommorrow in Souris but my memory of Blair will never fade …he was a great friend as we grew up in small town Souris Manitoba …we had such a good time on Dickson Street North…Blair was always smiling and was always up for our next adventure …I wish him God’s Speed and someday we’ll pick up where we left off my friend.

We lost a wonderful teacher, friend to all, coach and a positive and caring man. As a parent of a student Blair coached and supported, I thank him for his encouragement and belief in my son and how he would tell me what a terrific kid I had. There was nothing nicer than to hear someone tell you great things about your kid. He made a difference in many young people’s lives which will have a lifetime positive effect. Thank you…Blair will be deeply missed.

I am just devestated at the loss of my good friend Blair…deepest sympathy and condolences to his family. I have known Blair for about 13 years. Worked with him at the Calgary Remand Center and played ball with him. He became like the brother I never had, his infectious smile and laugh, the way he made you feel special. He guided me through some tough patches, he made me a better man. I will miss him dearly. He will be in my heart and thoughts forever. Love ya buddy. Save a spot for me on the ball team up there.

My thoughts and prayers are with the Murray family at this difficult time. Mr. Murray was an amazing coach, mentor and friend. Without a doubt, the best and most caring teacher I ever had. He has positively impacted and influenced so many people and their careers. His dedication and energy brought out the best in everyone around him. Rest in peace Mr. Murray.

We are deeply saddened for the loss of Mr. Murray, such a great coach and person. We know he touched many lives and his memory will live on. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

I don’t think I had seen Blair in almost 25 years. I was fortunate in running into Blair about 2 years ago at the Saddledome, and had a really good visit with him. I am so happy I had that opportunity. This is such a loss to your family. To Andy, Vivian, Warren and your families I want to extend our deepest sympathy from our family.

Warren, Andy and family – our thoughts are with your families. Blair was like a brother for many years and did so many good things with his life. He gave passionately to others above himself and I know that our family is very sad for the Murray family. He left a wonderful legacy and will be missed by many. All the best to the Murrays and all the people who were fortunate to have Blair pass through and influence their lives.

To Andy and Vivian and the entire Murray family please accept our deepest condolances on your loss. Blair was a great guy.

Praying that memories of smiles and good times will help you through such a difficult time. We enjoyed having Blair’s smile and enthusiasm in our school at Souris.

Mr. Murray (Blair),

Was not only a coach and a mentor, but he was a friend. Mr. Murray was one of the biggest influences in my life. He not only taught me the value of working hard on the volleyball court, he helped showed me what helping people was all about, he was never selfish with his time, he always went that extra mile to help us excel. Whether it was spending extra time in practice, opening the gym up on wknds to keep us out of trouble or just being that ear to listen. I am sorry to see a man of his stature gone, but what he did for all of us in Brandon, MB will never be forgotten. Thanks for everything Mr. Murray we will never forget. Rest in Peace…

Thoughts and prayers to the Murray family. I will cherish the fond memories shared with Blair, my kinda guy.

Mr. Murray was my coach, teacher and mentor 20 years ago (gosh it doesn’t seem like that long ago!) and he made such an impact on me of drive, determination and being your personal best. It’s a sad world that no longer has him in it and we’ve all lost one of the most caring & influential people that we’ve ever had the honor to know and learn from. My most heartfelt condolences go out to Mr. Murray’s family at this time.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in the passing of such a loving and caring man. The Wellingtan Family.

My sincere condolences go out to you. As a friend and colleague of Blair, I saw his work with kids on a daily basis. He was truly a master at his craft. One thing I will remember most is, how Blair would always light up when he spoke of his family. You were all very special to him.

Brian Plastow

Red Deer, Ab

My condolences are extended to the family. Blair was a great man who had a love for life and will be missed.

Thinking of all the Murray family and friends at this very sad time. My condolences to all as I know Blair will be greatly missed.

Sincere condolences to the Murray family.

Blair’s enthusiasm, dedication to his work and students, and amazing sense of humor will be missed by all that had the pleasure of meeting him. I worked with Blair at the Calgary Remand Center and he always brought a ray of sunshine to a horrible day. Blair has influenced so many people and will truly be missed.

So sad to hear, my condolences to his family. I met him when he taught in Gull Lake Sask. Was a great guy, so sorry.

Thinking of the Murray family and many lives that were touched by Blair Murray. I was fortunate to have been taught by Blair in Saskatchewan more than 10 years ago and can say I still feel his energy and liveliness when I think of him. He brought that energy to a small town and will be remembered for that gift.

A positively inspiring teacher, coach and friend.

I’m very sad to hear of Mr. Murray’s passing. I was a student in his PE class during high school and I really enjoyed that time. He was always enthusiastic and he let us play hockey a lot. He will be missed.

Sincere sympathy to the entire Murray family. I will never forget Blair’s smile and his love for his family.

My Heart and Prayers are with the Family at this Time! Coach Murray has Taught my son Bryce football for the past two Years and what a coach he was!! He also keep my son and his friends at his house and took them to the Dinos camp for football camp and for that I’m truly greatful!

I will miss our texting about football! thanks Coach! and he was my daughters work experince teachers , who was always available when she needed help!! you were a remarkable man and will be truly missed, but never forgotten!! with heavy Hearts the Maki’s All the Best Murray Family and Jeannie!!

We hardly knew Coach Murray, but soon found out how deeply he touched our sons life as a coach. The shadow and emptiness will soon be replaced by the kindness of Coach Murray’s heart and will for always be in our hearts. To his family and loved ones—may your tears turn to the beauty of his life.

Thinking of the Murray family, Blair was a great guy and I have very fond memories of my old friend and room mate!

Blair you will be missed. We always looked forward to seeing your car in the driveway, knowing you were home. Just waiting in anticipation of what new adventure or story you were waiting to tell us. Blair, full of life, spirit, adventure, strong work ethic, zest for sports (sorry couldn’t really appreciate your full knowledge on the subject), and energy. YOU WILL BE MISSED BY US. love Jan, Darcy and Cassandra

I remember Blair fondly from working with him at the Calgary Remand Centre. He was always smiling and always had a good thing to say about most people. He will missed by all his co-workers and freinds.

Please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of Blair. We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Although Blair and I were on opposite shifts, we would find ourselves working together on night shift(s). I enjoyed working with Blair, his positive attitude and sense of humour always made me laugh. If there is anything Krista and I can do from the west coast, please do not hesitate to ask.

Chris Litchford

Krista Kivisild

Always had a fun time and many laughs when Blair was around. He will be greatly missed by our staff and students. He was a gem and his players will forever remember his spirit and love of the game. We were all lucky to have the time we did with him.

I have not seen Mr. Murray since graduating high school in 1995, but there are those you just never forget. He was one who left an indelible mark on so many lives, and it appears he continued to do so in his latest teaching and coaching venture. Mr. Murray was a phenomenal teacher, coach, and mentor. I hope there is some comfort for his family to know that while he physically may be gone, his legacy lives on in those fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him. My sincerest condolences to all of you.

My condolances on your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

My thoughts and prayers go out to Blair and his family. He was a wonderful person and had a heart of gold. Please know and believe that he is in heaven now and couldn’t be happier. Rest in peace my friend! God bless!

My condolences for the loss to your family. My thoughts and prayers remain with Blair and his family. I was saddened when hearing the news of his untimely passing. Blair was a fantastic mentor and friend not only to myself, but many other of my class mates at Rundle College Senior High School. He had a generous and genuine heart for everyone of his students. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Our deepest condolences to the entire Murray family. How sad we were to hear of the sudden passing of Blair. May he rest in peace.

So going to miss our “Prone”, Blair we cherished you, You played ball with Ric for years with the Cloverleafs, which made for so many wonderful memories & you had a special bond with Ric, all those “advice talks”. Our lives have been touched by you and how could we ever forget you. Our deepest sympathy, to you Jeannie, the Murray family and his furry best friends. We Pray God’s grace sustains at this time.

Jeannie we are so sad to learn of your loss. We will be unable to attend the memorial tomorrow. Let’s get together later, but soon with Mom and Dad. Our love and thoughts are with you and your family.

Our condolences to the Murray family. Blair was not only a great friend to me, but a fellow teacher to tell stories with, a fellow correctional officer (Murray here), as well as a teammate on the slowpitch diamond. I was deeply saddened of his passing and know the world has lost a great person. He always had a positive outlook on life and a kind word to offer. I am glad that Blair was a part of my life. I will miss him a great deal. May he rest in peace.

Blair you were an inspirational person with a unique passion for life. Always smiling and enjoying yourself. I will always remember the times we played golf together and from original Renegade to another I will always remember the times we played hockey together. You were always a pleasure to work with and such a knowledge of sports!!

My thoughts and prayers to your family.

Rest peacefully.

We are saddened to hear of Mr. Murray’s passing. We had the privilege of having him as a teacher at Sundre High School.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. He will be dearly missed.

Blair was ferociously loyal about his family, friends and Brandon/Souris. Hard to fathom we will never see him or hear his stories again.

Blair was an inspiration, a teacher, a coach, a leader and great friend. Our thoughts are with you at this very difficult time.

To Warren and Andy and your families, We are so sorry to hear about Blair. Brandon and Juniper Bay held many fond memories for our family and we held the other Juniper Bay families dear to our hearts. It is with great sadness to learn of another loss in your family as we remember Blair’s smile and friendly nature. You brothers, and your mom and dad were wonderful neighbours and we are glad we kept in touch over the years. Again, we are so sorry for your loss and we are thinking of you. Janine Clark Guillot (and boys), Barbara Clark, and Cheryl Clark (and family)

Blair was my favorite teacher in Brandon Manitoba. He was a great coach and mentor. Blair motivated me to pursue a teaching career and will truly be missed.

Brent Hauser

Thoughts and prayers go out to all the family.

Coach Murray was a great man and it was a privilege for our son to play on his team this year.

Tim & Cindy Dunbar

Innisfail AB.

Blair had such incredible energy and a huge heart. He was a special gift and will be missed greatly!