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Obituary of Mark Edward Snider Blair
May 20, 1930 – Crandall, Manitoba
December 28, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta
Mark Edward Snider Blair, 94, of Calgary, AB, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at Evanston Grand Village where he lived the past six years. He was born on May 20, 1930, near Crandall, MB, to the late Robert and Elizabeth Blair.
Mark served in the Canadian Armed Forces in Brooks, AB, from 1952 and was honourably discharged in 1954.
In 1953, Mark married Margaret (nee Orford) and together they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Mark was a loving father to their five children.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him
Mark dedicated over 35 years of his career to the Canadian Western Natural Gas Company, where he was known for his expertise, dedication, and mentorship. He retired in 1990, leaving behind a legacy of customer service, professionalism, and excellence.
Mark enjoyed spending time with his family, dancing, camping, curling, coaching, and umpiring community baseball. He loved reading the newspaper, watching hockey, and wrestling. Mark was also actively involved in his community, volunteering his time and skills to various local organizations and causes including the Royal Canadian Legion and the Loyal Order of the Moose. Later in his life, Mark committed his life to Christ, and he loved the Lord.
He is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law, Virginia Nieckar and Dave Nieckar, Margaret ‘Peggy’ Blain and Bud Blain, and Loretta Maddin and Dave Statham. He is also survived by his daughter-in-law, Gisele.
A proud grandfather to nine wonderful grandchildren and a great-grandfather to nine great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his life. Mark had twelve siblings, and he is lovingly remembered by his sister Florence and by his numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife Margaret, son Richard ‘Mark’, and daughter Veronica.
Celebration of Mark’s Life will be held at Grace Baptist Church (1009 East Lake Blvd., Airdrie, AB) on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. A light reception to follow in the church café, providing an opportunity for family and friends to gather and share memories.
Mark’s love, kindness, and wisdom will forever be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him and that legacy will continue to inspire us all.
Rest in Peace, Mark.
Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Mark’s family here.
In living memory of Mark Blair, 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.
