Obituary of Blair Rasmussen

April 13, 1961 – Cornwall, Ontario

November 29, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Surrounded by family and listening to a soundtrack of his choosing, Blair Gordon Rasmussen, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 29, 2024, at the age of 63 years, following a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s.  

Born in Cornwall, ON, the sixth of seven children, Blair lived a life of adventure, athletic achievement, and travel.  His notable achievements in rowing at Western University and later with Canada’s national team were followed by a remarkable coaching career. That dedication to coaching took him to Winnipeg, Texas, New Brunswick, Tokyo, and finally to Calgary. In addition to coaching, he managed the Calgary Rowing Club; his witty emails and legendary April Fool’s jokes were highlights for the rowers. 

An avid cyclist, Blair’s memorable achievement was cycling across Canada from east to west and continuing his journey, to Inuvik—truly sea to sea to sea. Few are brave enough to endure the headwinds that come with this epic adventure, but it was a ride that revealed his character—the same strength of character that allowed him to tackle Parkinson’s with humour, grit, and humility.  

Blair is survived by his loving wife of 23 years, Judy Leyden.  Sharing a love of cycling, rowing, and adventure, their life together was lived with gusto, love, and dedication to the growth of others. Blair was predeceased by his mother Marion, father Lloyd, brother Richard (Kai) and sister Linda (Bruce). His shenanigans and quirky humour will be deeply missed by brothers, John (Ruth, deceased), Brian (Diane), David (Deb), and Darryl (Melissa); Judy’s siblings, Doug (Mei), Marnie, and Leanne (Reg), and Blair’s mother-in-law, Rita Leyden. Blair’s many nieces and nephews will miss his teasing presence and willingness to engage in any of their adventures. 

Blair cherished the connections he formed with the Sanderson Ridge Community and his ReTroGenerates cycling team. He also leaves behind his cherished dog, George, a loyal source of comfort and joy.

Heartfelt thanks to the care staff at Providence Care Centre, the Parkinson’s Advanced Care Team (ACT) and the compassionate MAiD Team. Blair and Judy were incredibly grateful for the love and support of people from around the world, and close to home.

A Celebration of Blair’s Life will be held in the new year.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Branch Out Foundation, https://branchoutfoundation.com/match-campaign-2024/ or the Parkinson Society of Canada https://donate.parkinson.ca/.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Blair’s family here.

In living memory of Blair Rasmussen, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.