BARNES, Blair Francis
BARNES, Blair Francis
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Blair Francis Barnes of West Vancouver on July 6, 2013 at Lion’s Gate Hospital.
Blair was born to Bertram and Elizabeth Barnes on Nov. 6, 1931 in Castor Alberta. Blair spent his early years in Castor growing up as the youngest of six children: Bob, Bill, Skip, Shellah and Beullah.
Blair went to the University of Saskatchewan and met Mary Sosulski, marrying on Oct.4, 1953.
After graduating with a degree in Philosophy, Blair went to work for Poole Construction. While working and raising his young family he studied hard to earn his RIA Certification. He and Mary moved a lot in their early years between Edmonton and Calgary with a stopover in Nelson BC for the construction of the bridge.
Blair and Mary moved back to Nelson in 1973 to begin new careers as business owners. They started with Lakeside Motel, then took over and rejuvenated Oliver’s Books, and lastly introduced Nelson to its own artists in Frame Art.
Blair also volunteered as a Board member of Mount St Francis, and Kootenay Lake District Hospital. The final move was made to Vancouver in 1987 for Blair to work with George Poole until his retirement.
Blair leaves behind his loving wife Mary in their 60th year of marriage, daughters Bernadette (Henry), Maureen (Joe), Laura (Jim), and Janice (Mike). Grandchildren Marc (Fawn), Darcy, Nicole (Lee), Jeremy, Heather, Aline (Mike) Carrie, Katie (Adrian) Michel (Melissa), and Stephanie; as well as 3 great-grandchildren Edward, Elyse, and Taj, and his sister Shellah. Blair was predeceased by his parents and four of his siblings.
We would like to thank all that have helped us through this difficult period, and in particular thank Jackie Falcon, Dr Sasha, Dr Sugar and the Chemotherapy and Palliative Care teams at Lions Gate Hospital for their loving support.
Funeral Service will be held at St. Anthony’s Catholic Parish, 2347 Inglewood Ave, West Vancouver, B.C. on Thursday July 11, 2013 at 11 a.m.
Interment will be held on Saturday July 20, 2013 11:15 a.m. at Nelson Cemetery in Nelson B.C.
In lieu of flowers a donation to the charity of your choice or the Lions Gate Foundation (Chemotherapy unit) is appreciated.
Hollyburn Funeral Home 604-922-1221 www.hollyburnfunerals.com
