Arnold (Arnie) Gene Blair, 84, entered rest on Monday, September 13, 2021, surrounded by his loving family.
Arnold was born April 8, 1937, to Joseph and Margaret Blair in Spooner, WI. He grew up alongside his sisters: Nancy Hankins, Shirley Weaver, and Sandy Dreidlein and his cousin Marjorie Ruid. Arnie moved to White Sulphur Springs, MT while in 7th grade, where he met Barbara Musgrove whom he would later wed. The sweethearts sang together in the Church choir after their wedding on September 19, 1958, and raised four children: Lori McGuire, Lisa Bond, Michael Blair, and Aaron Blair.
Arnold Blair was an Army veteran of the Korean War. He later worked and retired from the Montana State Highway Department. Also, he was a 50-year member, 32nd degree Master Mason, of the Diamond City Lodge Number 7 where he was able to complete work for charitable institutions over the tenure of that time.
Arnie was an avid hunter, trapper, angler, and woodworking enthusiast. Arnold loved nothing more than sharing his passion for the mountains and wildlife with his family and friends. He took all of his kids and grandchildren on many excursions to hunt, fish, and camp. Arnold would never leave the lake, stream, or pond if anyone else caught a fish as he was fiercely competitive. Tales of his immense love and feats of strength filled his children and grandchildren with wonder. More than anything, he loved coming home from work and having his children take his lunch pail, jacket, and boots off to spoil him for a little while. Arnold also loved a good laugh and could be found with a half smile when something clever or inappropriate had been said.
Arnold’s parents: Joseph and Margaret, sisters, Shirley and Sandy, and his granddaughter Randi Blair-Bond preceded him in rest. His loving wife Barbara Blair; sister, Nancy; cousin, Marjorie; devoted children Lori McGuire, Mike Blair, Lisa Bond, and Aaron Blair; their spouses; 11 grandchildren and 12 (and counting) great-grandchildren survive and remember him.
A Memorial Service is scheduled for 2:00 p.m., Saturday, September 18, 2021 at the Yoked Parish in White Sulphur Springs. Burial with Military Honors will follow the service at the Mayn Cemetery in White Sulphur Springs. In lieu of flowers the family requests any donations in remembrance be sent to Diamond City Lodge #7, POB 544, or Yokes Parish of First Presbyterian, POB 732.
Barbara Cole says
Thoughts and prayers for you Barb, and your family. Remember the good times, and I know they are millions.