Obituary
BLAIR, Stephen Stewart - 46, died peacefully on August 4, 2009, in Ottawa, Ont. Stephen Stewart Blair was born in Amherst on September 10, 1962. He grew up in Northport, the only son of Stewart and Eileen (Blacklock) Blair, and older brother to Janet Brownell, Halifax; Rosalie, Yellowknife and Sheri Cameron, Tatamagouche. In 1980, Stephen met Lora Abbott, his "Punkin", the love of his life and the mother of their two amazing children; Eric, 17, a voracious reader, shares his father's infectious laugh and his parents' strong work ethic; Megan, nearly 15, has Stephen's beautiful blue eyes and his talent for art. Both are testament to Lora and Stephen's unwavering love for their children and each other over the last 29 years. In 1984, Stephen sought work in the far north, heading to what was then Frobisher Bay, obtaining his journeyman carpenter papers, and building a new life outside of the familiar environment of Northport. It was in the north that his world expanded. He met people from all across Canada, travelled the north, and learned more about himself and what he wanted from his life. He and Lora built their first home in Iqaluit, celebrated the birth of Eric in April 1992, built a business, and formed lifetime friendships. After the birth of their much-loved boy, Stephen and Lora returned to Nova Scotia for 10 years and built their home across from the red sands of the Northumberland Strait. Megan was born in August 1994, a dark-haired, blue-eyed girl who brought great joy to her dad. Stephen worked as a carpenter and furniture maker, always finding time to help those who needed him: hauling wood, building a shed, or enjoying a cold beer at Peacock Beach. The call of the north and the opportunities available there lured Stephen and Lora back to Iqaluit in late 2003. They re-established old friendships and built new ones, joining other families around bonfires, on warm trips south, and at home. Home was where Stephen was happiest, surrounded by the people he loved. Stephen had very simple needs: his beloved family, including Jessie, Sadie and Bootsie; the company of friends, a good yarn, and laughter. Stephen was larger and louder than life. His boisterous presence was felt the moment he entered a room, and those around him never failed to respond to his enthusiasm and love for life. His laugh was legendary. It came from his gut, and it was the essence of Stephen Blair.... loud, uninhibited, with more than a hint of the fun to come. Stephen and Lora built NuNorth Construction into a successful business over the last five years. Stephen worked hard and took pride in his work, and had a reputation as the builder to go to for quality work and superior craftsmanship. Stephen's last project was the home he was building for his family, overlooking Frobisher Bay. His death came suddenly and unexpectedly; his loss is immeasurable. He leaves behind his wife Lora; their children, Eric and Megan; his parents, sisters, Lora's family, and cherished friends. He will forever be remembered for his ability to love deeply and openly, and to demonstrate that love to everyone who crossed his path. Stephen's generous spirit will live on in those who benefited from his decision to become an organ donor. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted into the care of Furlong Jones Funeral Home, 70 Church St., Amherst (902-667-8777) with visitation Monday, August 10, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Funeral service will be held in Trinity St. Stephen's United Church, Amherst, on Tuesday, August 11, at 2 p.m., reception to follow. Burial to take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Stephen's memory to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, or to a charity of your choice. www.furlongjones.ca
[Saturday 09-August-2009 The Chronicle-Herald, Halifax, NS]
[posted to NSCumber mailing list by EMKeys 2009-08-09]
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1962 - 2009 (46 years)
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