Donald Charles Blair Jr., Major, USAF Retired, 70, of Peachtree City, Ga. (formerly of Kilbourne) passed away Sunday, September 29, 2013 at home with family by his side following a seven month battle against cancer.
He was born in Delaware on September 16, 1943 to the late Donald Sr. and Minnie (Cackler) Blair. A 1961 graduate of Elm Valley High School, Don achieved his private flying license at age 21 before receiving a bachelor degree from Ohio State University, after which he entered the U.S. Air Force in 1967. As an Air Force pilot, Don flew helicopter rescue in Vietnam. During his career, he also qualified as an Air Traffic Controller, flew C-141 transports, T-39’s and C-21’s for VIP support. Don retired as Major in 1987 after 20 years of service to his country and received several commendations throughout his career. Don then spent 16 years piloting domestic routes for Delta Air Lines. He retired in 2003. Don loved his family more than anything and gathered all of his children and grandchildren together as often as possible, including a wonderful family trip to Disney World in 2011. His biggest passion was flying, but when Don was on land, he was also a member of the Canongate Golf Clubs. He loved landscaping his backyard and capturing beautiful scenery during his travel. Don and his family enjoyed cruises, RV trips and exploring National Parks together.
Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife of 35 years, Nancy (Evans). They met at George Air Force Base and were married March 25, 1978 in White Cloud, Mich. He is also survived by his children, Todd Blair and his fiance, Lori Hovatter, Brian Blair and his wife, Stacy, both of Delaware, Chris Blair and his wife, Meghan, of Auckland, New Zealand, Kimberly Blair of Nashville, Tenn.; six grandchildren, Alex, Samantha, Dylan, Mason, Madeline and Scott Blair all of Delaware; and an uncle, Junior Cackler of Kilbourne.
Friends may call Thursday from noon until 2 p.m. at which time services will follow at 2 p.m. in the Snyder-Rodman Funeral Center, 1510 W. William St. at Valley Side Dr., Delaware, Ohio. Burial will follow in Green Mound Cemetery in Kilbourne with military honors provided by the Delaware County Veterans Association.
In memory of Don’s outstanding service to his country, contributions can be made to Joining Forces (in support of military families) or Wounded Warrior Project: Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.
