Although we knew the time was near and we would have to say goodbye, it is with heavy hearts that the children of Betty Blair, announce the passing of their beloved mother, nana, and great nana. Nana, a long-time resident of Trail, passed away gracefully in the arms of her family to join her husband Wes (1992) and their eldest son Roy (1997).
Nana was born on February 4, 1917, in Poplar Point, Manitoba, near Winnipeg. She was the only child of John and Janet Spence. She met the love of her life, Wesley Francis Blair in Creston, BC and was married on May 30, 1936.
Nana truly cherished her family and worked very hard as a housekeeper for other families to provide extra for her children. She devoted her spare time to gardening, canning, baking, sewing, and knitting always with her children in mind. Planning and cooking the Sunday roast beef and holiday dinners where her family could gather gave her great pleasure. Nana was happiest when surrounded by her children, and grandchildren, and when she had the newest great grand baby in her arms. She had a love for life, an easy laugh and a welcoming generous heart.
Nana’s love, devotion and laughter will live on in the hearts of her surviving children; son Ken (Linda), daughter Janet (Bob), and daughter-in-law Margie (Frank), her grandchildren, ‘favourite’ granddaughter Brenda (Brent), and grandsons, Ronnie (Penny), Jaret (Candace), Tyler (Krista), Chauncy (Andrea) and Brody (Shelly) and great grandchildren, Holly, Jess, Samuel, Wesley, Addison, and Gracie Jane. Also feeling the loss are her many nieces and nephews and her fellow residents at Columbia View Lodge including George, Neva and Bunny who shared her dinner table.
Nana’s family would like to express their sincere gratitude for the care and attention that was shown to her by the Home Support Staff who allowed her to stay in her home for as long as possible. We would also like to thank the staff of Columbia View Lodge for making Nana’s last few months comfortable and happy. We knew she was getting the best care she could possibly get.
Family and friends are invited to honor Nana at an open house celebration of Nana’s life, which will take place on Friday, November 16, 2012 at her home on the bench from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The family would also like to invite all of those people whose lives were touched by our Nana who are unable to attend the open house to join us in a moment of silent prayer or reflection, from wherever they may be, at 2:00 p.m. on this Friday.
Al Grywacheski of Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services™ has been entrusted with arrangements. You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence at the family’s online register at www.myalternatives.ca.