Dr. Donald C. Blair of Mesa, AZ passed away very peacefully on August 13th, 2014.
Dr. Blair was born on June 20, 1936 in Utica, NY. On August 13th, 1960, he married Joan Bayliss in Oneida, NY and enjoyed 54 years of marriage. In 1966, Dr. Blair earned his Master's Degree in Guidance and Counseling at Colgate University, Hamilton, NY. In 1967 he and his family moved to Arizona so that he could continue his education and ultimately earned his Doctorate in Elementary Administration and Supervision from Arizona State University in 1971. He spent 20+ years with the Mesa School District as an educator and school administrator for several elementary schools throughout Mesa and retired in 1991. He then worked for Northern Arizona University as a Student Teacher Supervisor in the Mesa area for 10 years.
Dr. Blair will always be remembered as a man who adored and loved his wife. For 54 years they showed their children what true love was. They endured through many hard times only to come out in the end loving each other more than ever. Never was there a more perfect couple than Don and Joan Blair.
He was a fantastic father who continually taught his children how to be good, kind, and honorable people. An example to many, his children always looked to him for wisdom, guidance, and love. Always quick with a joke or a funny quip, he kept us laughing all the time.
Known to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren as "Pa", He was always ready to pass on the love he had for his children to them. Whether it was reaching into the coin jar to grab as many coins as they could or letting them "drive" his golf cart, they could always be guaranteed a fun and happy time at Pa & Ma Bear's house.
Don is survived by his wife Joan, their three children, Sherri Gussie, Terri Brackney, Mark D. Blair, and 9 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
A man who will be sorely missed, Dr. Donald C. Blair will forever be remembered in the hearts and minds of all who knew him.
We love you Dad.
Arrangements under the direction of Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park and Funeral Care, Mesa, AZ.
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5 Entries
August 24, 2014
MaryAnne Fadule
Don was one of the most warm and engaging individuals I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. Regardless of who you were, you could always count on the fact that he would make you feel important. He meant a lot to many people and I hope he knew how much he was respected and cared for. The world is a little darker without his presence.
August 24, 2014
Jeannie (Lenon) Ecker
Don was an amazing principal and supported his teachers and students. Although I only worked with him during his first year at Field (1980-81), I remember him well. He taught me a lot about the importance of creating a positive environment (which he modeled!), and he always had a smile for every student.
August 22, 2014
Barb Alexander/Windley
As my principal, I will always remember his smile, fun jokes, and support. He always listened and made you feel good. I will miss him.
August 20, 2014
JoAnn Mowers
My condolences to you and your family and may you feel comfort in your cherished memories of Don as your Husband, Father and Grandfather.I was fortunate to have worked with him as my Principal at Field Elementary School till the day he retired. As I cherish my memories of him, I will always remember him fondly.
August 20, 2014
Jane Crawford
I am saddened to hear of your loss. I was fresh out of ASU when Dr Blair hired me as a special Ed teacher at Redbird in 1978.I'll never forget his kindness and wonderful leadership. May he rest in peace knowing the impact he made on many teachers and students.
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Funeral services provided by:
Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park and Funeral Care6747 E Broadway Rd aka 400 S Power Rd, Mesa, AZ 85206
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