BLAIR MICHAEL SIMPSON

Condolences & Memories (44 entries)

• I grew up in Transcona, having a dear friend, Cathy Simpson, ( Krawetz ) . I remember Blair fondly. He was always happy, smiling, and a gentle soul. I wish to extend my sincere condolences to the family, There are no words I can offer that will take away the pain, in time, grief turns into the wonderful cherished memory’s of your dear brother. I am so sorry for your loss and heart ache. - Posted by: Susan Perich Klopak (Friend of Cathy Krawetz) on: Apr 13, 2018

• So sad, Blair was a great friend. I will miss his kind and generous heart. My condolences to the family. RIP, sweet Blair. - Posted by: Jeanne Cumming (Good friend and co-worker) on: Feb 26, 2018

• Very shocked to hear of Blairs passing, Blair and I grew up together, doors apart on Melrose Ave, because we were the furthest most catchment from our schools, Westview, Arthur Day and Transcona Collegiate. We became fast friends doing the long walk from elementary to junior high then high school together. It has been many years since I have had the opportunity to talk to Blair aside from our High school reunion, and in those many years I have had to say good bye to way to many close people. Although we lost touch over the years, I will always remember Blair so many years ago as someone that never had a bad thing to say about anyone and had a never ending positive outlook and always willing to help anyone. As with a lot of relationships as we grow older and move on, I do regret not keeping in touch with Blair(I do not think that I have ever seen the amount of tributes to a persons passing) You stood very tall to a great many peoples lives on this earth, and you've more than earned your wings In reading the tributes to Blair he obviously continued to grow into adulthood fostering that positive and nurturing spirit When the day comes I hope we can have another walk together like we did so many times in the past. Rest easy old friend you have more than earned it. My sincerest condolences to the family Gerry Rentz - Posted by: Gerry Rentz (old friend/neighbor) on: Feb 21, 2018

• Blair was a member of a drawing class I taught many years ago. I enjoy remembering his cheerful presence, his enthusiasm and the big beautiful drawings he made. Blair’s pleasant nature and innocent outlook helps keep me believing in people. Like others remembering him here, I am very grateful to have known him. - Posted by: Arnold Saper () on: Feb 20, 2018

• So sorry to hear of Blair's passing. He was always kind, happy and smiling. He would always greet people with a smile at the service window. If you ever had a bad day at work, his smile and encouraging words would help you through the day. You were a blessing to many people Blair. - Posted by: Henry (Friend/Co-worker) on: Feb 19, 2018

• I was so very sad to hear of Blair’s passing. As has already been said, he was the sweetest and most kind person you could ever know. He always had something to say that would put a smile on your face. He was fantastic with the kids at the Christmas party as Santa every year. He will be missed by all of his Service Canada friends. - Posted by: Darlene Bell (Friend and coworker) on: Feb 19, 2018

• When I was first born 14 years ago, I was surrounded by many family members by my side. Of all of those wonderful people by my side, one of them brought me a pink teddy bear, one that has been featured in almost all photos of me as an infant. Blair gave me a teddy bear on the day I was born, (one that I would later fittingly name “Teddy”) a bear that I always treasured and kept near me. I practically brought the bear with me everywhere for the next 6 years, never letting myself wander far from it. I never knew my Uncle Blair quite as long as other close friends of him may have, but in the 14 years I was fortunate enough to know him, he was truly a kindred spirit, one not easily forgotten. If you were awkwardly standing in the background at a family function, unsure of what to exactly say to someone, he would find you and would show a genuine interest in what you had to say. He’d always make sure to greet everyone he saw with a calm and caring demeanour. He was very intelligible and could talk to you just about anything with a knowing voice. He was a brilliant artist, one I genuinely look up for inspiration and created many beautiful pieces of art, sharing them with those closest to him. He had a love for helping others, having done many hours of volunteer work to help the world around him shine a little brighter. He was also a lover of the Charlie Chaplin films, having shown much admiration for the visual arts and expressions shown in the movies. My Uncle Blair is one of the most compassionate people I have ever met and forever will hold a place in the hearts of all those he held dear. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being such a wonderful person in my life. You are truly whom we all aspire to be like. We’ll make sure to take care of Smokey DeNiro with as much love as you would have given him. I hope that wherever you are, you are at peace and are being given all the love you shared with the world. Thanks for Teddy. - Posted by: MG (Great Niece) on: Feb 18, 2018

• My sincerest condolences to Blair’s family and close friends. I was lucky enough to work alongside Blair at Folk Fest for the last four years and will miss his ever-smiling face and gentle demeanour. He was a joy to work with and I will miss having him there with me and the rest of our team this summer. He was someone I’ll never forget and I’ll always be grateful to have known. - Posted by: Jennifer Bisch (Volunteer teammate at the Winnipeg Folk Fest) on: Feb 18, 2018

• Blair had the alibity to make the best out of any bad situation. I had to have surgery done so I was not allowed to be at work. And then I had to do several sleep studies. Blair was a kind individual who looked out for everyone but himself. Working with him at Walmart was the best time of my life. Multiple family members of mine were going through medical emergencies and I just wanted to break down and have panic and anxiety attackes Blair however was able to calm me down. I unfortunately picked my surgery at the wrong time. Really wish I could of been there as much as he was there for me . - Posted by: Dalton Whelan (Co-Worker Walmart ) on: Feb 18, 2018

• Our sincere condolences to Big Brother Gary and Family, sister Cathy and family and all extended family members! MISSION ACCOMPLISHED: "Blessed are the pure in heart for they see God." Blair will definitely see God. Blair's speech was alway gracious, he had a clean heart and a steadfast spirit. Blair enjoyed life and took every moment to take the joy out of life and impart it to others. He was genuinely friendly, always happy to see you even if he hadn't seen you in a while. He was kind and considerate asking questions about how you were doing and how everyone in your family was also doing. Blair loved to share animal stories and was intrigued by unique and beautfiul pictures of horses, animals and far away places that he never had a chance to see. He love different flavors and enjoyed tasting a variety of cuisines. As a Facebook pal he would share interesting moments and being as expressive as he was he helped you understand the awesome. When Blair was born, God had him destined for a purpose and blessed him with a happy spirit, his gift was mirth,his mission Bring Joy to Others, his tools were kindness, a peaceable nature, respect and love for family, friends, and neighbors and strangers. Although not many knew it, once his sister Debbie passed on, Blair had many questions about God and why good beautiful die so young? Why is there cancer, why is there illness? A good question for all of us. My answer in Theory for Blair: In heaven when our journey is being planned by the higher omnipotent powers Our soul is given a body with a heart to fill with love, a mind to explore and grasp the beauty of life, a family to share good and bad times with for strength and character building. We are given two angel wings that are not visible, they rush us forward to help where needed and take us where we need to be. We are also given a full cup of love to empty to the world and one to fill up before we can return to heaven. Cups come in different sizes according to each person's mission. Thank you Blair for being you. Like I said to you "the apple does not fall far from the tree, your parents were also great! We were blessed to have you among us, we feel the pain of losing you. BLAIR YOUR MISSION IS ACCOMPLISHED, YOU EXCELLED AND YOU LEFT A HUGE VOID BUT MOST OF ALL...YOU LOVED, YOU LAUGHED AND YOU SHARED YOURSELF WITH OTHERS. WELL DONE!!! REST IN PEACE! - Posted by: Bruce and Eileen McDowell (Cousin) on: Feb 18, 2018

• I have fond memories of Blair's artistic abilities. Throughout elementary school there were many times I asked Blair to draw me a title page for a project. He always obliged. He was meticulous and yet I was always amazed of how quick he would produce the finished product. He drew it, I colored it and I would get the good grade. We walked to Westview school together many times down Hoka which as a child seemed so far. The last time I had the pleasure of seeing Blair was at our 25th high school reunion at T.C.I. in 2005. He was the same person that I remembered growing up. Sweet, kind, caring and pleasant. Rest in peace old friend! - Posted by: Erica Andree-Norris (school mate/ childhood friend) on: Feb 17, 2018

• Today is Day 15 since we lost our beloved brother, brother-in-law & uncle Blair. We wish we could turn back the clock and checked in with you at your home while you were fighting the flu and winter blues. Maybe we could taken you to the hospital for your shortness of breath and listlessness and you would have gotten more medical attention. I'm feeling so guilty something that will haunt me for the rest of my life. We are all truly grateful for the wonderful brother, brother-in-law and uncle you've been for the last 55 years. Your kind, gentle, patient and generous soul we'll never forget. You were a great listener and were truly genuine towards us and everyone you met. There wasn't an ounce of dishonesty in your bones. You treated everyone with equal respect and dignity. Everyone mattered to you. Even though we saw you struggling we know that we did our very best to support you. Our family celebrations will be totally different without you there. It will be surreal. We hope you are resting now and will always look over us as our lives continue here on earth. We'll truly miss your positive presence. Your dog, Smokey, I'm sure he is wondering where you are now, however, he's being taken good care of by sister-in-law Adrienne who has provided him with a large backyard to run around and Smokey will have Adrienne's two dogs to be by his side. Our family would like to say at this time, thank you ALL so much for your beautiful words and memories of our brother, Blair. God Bless you all and Peace be with you. Love Cathy & Russ Krawetz & family. - Posted by: Cathy & Russ Krawetz & family (Sister & brother-in-law & Uncle) on: Feb 17, 2018

• Good night sweet prince. Blair was larger then life. I meet Blair when we were both union presidents. He was passionate about the union and cared deeply to make sure that the workplace was inclusive for all. Blair always greeted you a smile and a hug. He shared his love of the world with you. I will miss running into him when I come to Winnipeg and catching up on all the news we tried to share in our short encounters. My heart felt condolences to Blair’s family. - Posted by: Susan Norman (Friend and union sister. ) on: Feb 16, 2018

• Blair, it's Valentine’s time, and we want you to know that you are very much in our hearts. We among your old friends, (Howard, Bev & Debbie, Evelyn, Helma, Ryan and many others) were blessed to share good times and adventures with you over the years. Blair totally "made" any party, and every greeting was a warm and joyful event! We are heartbroken that he has been taken, far too young, with his plans and dreams still ahead. He sincerely deserved the best. Blair possessed, and shared many exceptional gifts as a person, thoughtful, genuine, a joyful and generous spirit in the world. A gifted artist with a wholly modernist take on things, his work often showed a wry sense of humour with a simple, genuine honesty, leaving a footprint that was uniquely his. Blair, may you be safe and loved. May we meet again. With deepest condolences to Blair's dear family. - Posted by: Stephanie Van Nest (Friend) on: Feb 15, 2018

• So sorry and sad to hear of Blair's passing. Had known Blair since we were kids, one of the neighborhood kids, street baseball, road hockey. Blair was there with us, as he'll always be now in our memories. Condolences to his family and friends. - Posted by: Bruce Nelson (Friend, neighbour) on: Feb 14, 2018

• I am so very sad to hear of Blair's passing. I have known Blair since he was a baby, our families living houses apart, and was delighted to find Blair many years later working for the same government department as me. His "joie de vivre" was inspiring and every conversation with Blair was uplifting. I think Blair had much to teach us about life and am sorry that it is through his passing that I am thus again reminded of that. My sincerest condolences to his beloved family. - Posted by: Susan (Nelson) Richardson (Neighbour, friend, co-worker) on: Feb 14, 2018

• Blair always brought a smile to your face with his beautiful smile. If I had a bad day - I always felt better after I saw Blair . With his smile and kind words - I always went home feeling better. Thank you Blair. You are missed. My deepest condolences to all Blair's family and friends. Heaven now has Blair the Angel!!! - Posted by: Debbie (Coworker Walmart) on: Feb 12, 2018

• Dear Blair, how can this be you? You were so young and full of enthusiasm for life, people, movies, music, art, food, the Folk Festival, your dog Smoky DeNiro and so much more. It is so very sad to think that I won't bump into you again and see your smile and be touched by your kindness. You were one of the nicest people anyone could be lucky enough to know. I also appreciate the way you supported the local artists of Winnipeg, including my Dad who was one of your professors. I will miss you Blair! Rest in peace. - Posted by: Michelle Saper (friend) on: Feb 12, 2018

• To the family so sorry to hear of Blair's passing. Much to young. Had only met Blair a few times thru a family member. But will always remember him happy warm a great soul. Blair may you meet the angels in heaven which I'm sure you will. You will be missed by all who knew you. - Posted by: Terri Van Nest (friend) on: Feb 11, 2018

• Blair was a lovely man - thoughtful, generous and quick to flash the warmest smile. I always watched the Academy Awards with him every February; it was great fun chatting about movies, show biz gossip and I often laughed at the comments he made. I will sorely miss his presence in my life. - Posted by: Deborah McMorran (Friend) on: Feb 09, 2018

• Blair was the nicest and kindest person you could ever meet! He always had a big smile and positive attitude ... he truly touched the lives of many which is evident by the wonderful and loving tributes. He was my friend through school and when our paths crossed in our working world. He added a sparkle to everyone’s day! Will miss you my dear friend. - Posted by: Laurie (Lyons) Carriere (Friend & Colleague) on: Feb 09, 2018

• I was really shocked to hear about Blair. To his family I am so sorry for your loss. Blair made everyone smile with his smile and sweet nature. So genuine. He really was one of a kind. I feel blessed to have known him. - Posted by: Paula kenworthy (Friend and coworker) on: Feb 09, 2018

• So sad to hear of Blair’s passing. This world just lost a true friend. Blair was always happy, always smiling and always there for his friends. We had lots of laughs and good gab sessions when we were away on union meetings. Blair was the best travel buddy you could hope for. Rest In Peace Blair and my condolences to your family. - Posted by: Vivian Rademacher (Friend/Co-worker) on: Feb 09, 2018

• You will be missed, always a smile on you face, and a moment to chat. Although we haven't worked together for a few years, I still had the joy of seeing you as I walked thru the doors at Walmart. You left us too soon, but I know you are smiling down at us from heaven. Rest in peace Blair. My sincere condolences to Blair's family. - Posted by: Teri Dovey (Friend) on: Feb 08, 2018

• I will always remember the kind man who smiled when talking to you and the way his eyes lit up when he knew I was making my Christmas turtles. He was a gentle soul and he will be missed by many many people. RIP my friend - Posted by: Suzanne Livingstone (Friend & co-worker) on: Feb 08, 2018

• I was so very sad and shocked to hear of Blair’s passing. I was one of the many lucky people that met Blair. We had so many little chats over the years about everything from his travels to my pets—sometimes deep conversations and sometimes very light. He was always smiling, engaging, and positive. I want to give my deepest condolences to Blair’s family. - Posted by: Cheryl Bateman (Co-worker ) on: Feb 08, 2018

• Erma Bombeck once said "When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would have not a single bit of talent left and could say "I used everything you gave me"." Blair's had many fine talents, but the one in particular that everyone will remember was how kind and gracious he was to everyone. He was so sincere in all his interactions with people. I believe that when Blair stands before God, He will thank Blair for spreading joy and sharing his compassion with so many many people. Blair, you made the world a better place and you will truly be missed. - Posted by: Trina Tully (Friend and coworker) on: Feb 08, 2018

• Blair and I worked together from day one at the new Walmart on Taylor. When we first met each other, we eyed each other up and instantly smiled. We knew we found kindred spirits in one another. We have shared many experiences, thoughts, and memories and I am at a loss with out him. Blair is just an amazing human being, full of kindness and understanding. Blair helped me with the loss of my Grandmother, and now I guess he gets to go hang out with her. Blair, I'm always going to miss you, and I hope your not getting into to much trouble. - Posted by: Amanda D Niemi (Friend/Co-worker) on: Feb 08, 2018

• I will never forget Blair's sparkling, sunshine face. He was my first coffee buddy at the Feds and he became a family friend. He would always give anyone who he was speaking with his full and careful attention. He was so gifted in that way. My cheeks would be sore from all of the smiling we did. He was so completely special - I feel blessed to have known him. My condolences go to Blair's family and friends. Sweet, sweet Blair, we will miss you. - Posted by: Margaret Sebescen (Friend) on: Feb 08, 2018

• This is definitely shocking news. I met Blair back in 1972 when I first met his sister Cathy, back then he was the little brother that was always around :)Through those early years, we watched him grow to the person that everyone describes today. I have not had the pleasure through the last many years to know Blair as an adult, but I could always see through Cathy's Facebook posts the closeness that she had with her little brother, even letting them live with him as their house was being built. He will surely be missed by Cathy, Russ and family, and friends. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers and that he has angels in heaven already waiting there for him. - Posted by: Lori Shaw (Friend) on: Feb 08, 2018

• Blair, we will all miss you in so many ways. Your smile, your laugh, the twinkle in your eyes. I first met Blair in 2000 while we were all at the Post Office Bldg. So many years ago and I can still remember the warm welcome I was given by him. Moving on, whenever I had a bad day, a walk down to say hi to Blair made me smile and just feel better. Blair and a smile go together. I am sad knowing that any trip downstairs will not include a smile from you. How lucky the angels are!! - Posted by: Judy Taylor (Friend ) on: Feb 08, 2018

• I met Blair when I first started with the Feds and he was one of the first people to talk to me. I remember thinking how Blair had such kind eyes. I loved going to visit Blair at Walmart he was just always so happy it didn’t matter what he was doing. - Posted by: Jenah Klassen (Co-worker) on: Feb 08, 2018

• Blair was the kindest and most gentle soul I ever had the chance to work with. He saw the good in everyone and tried his best to make the workplace, a place where all his co-worker's would be respected. He was a true union brother. At our union conferences he would regale us with his culinary experiences and also his travel experiences. Always a joy. You will be missed by many and heaven just gained a great angel. - Posted by: Kelly & Daniel Minucci (Friend and union brother) on: Feb 08, 2018

• I first met Blair in Russ & Cathy's wedding party as a fellow groomsman and he was a very soft-spoken and kind young man right from the start. He only had positive opinions and was always ready to help someone in need. He will be missed greatly by family and friends. Rock on Blair. - Posted by: Rob Kotchon (friend) on: Feb 08, 2018

• Blair Simpson I heard the news today and it was shock. Most of the day I felt surprised, sad and angry. Surprised and sad that such a good man was called to the heavens early. You were the type of guy who made everyone in a room feel listened too and special. Mostly because of your kindness and laugh. I was also angry because you brighten up the world being an honest good friend and doing great things for people around you. Sharing snacks, supporting charities and being one of Santa’s Santa elves are some of your many ways. I am close to accepting this and now and happy for you as you are clearly feeling no pain and among the angels. Your memories and the way you made people feel will be part of your legacy on earth. It was a pleasure knowing you. This picture shows you wearing my favorite team Canada jersey and you loved borrowing it for the day as you loved being Canadian. Rest In Peace. - Posted by: Kevin Lagacé (friend) on: Feb 08, 2018

• There are always three degrees of separation in Winnipeg. My friend, Judy, now passed has a very talented artistic sister Stef. There was Blair at an opening..you know how you pass people in the hall at work? Well Blair recognized me! Blair loved a good opening, good food and a good laugh. We worked in the same building (and eventually for the same UNION)...that's the way he was..a friend to all. Hard to figure him as a Union Rep, but he had strong principles. More amusing I moved into a condo unit and there he was with Smokey! A sweet, blythe spirit who didn't have a harsh word to say about anyone. Blair loved people and animals and has left this world an emptier, sadder place for his parting. XO. I'm so glad I had the chance to know him. - Posted by: Cathy McCarron (Neighbour and Co-worker) on: Feb 08, 2018

• We've lost a positive, unique and joyful spirit. Thank you Blair for the memories, the wonderfully good times and for being you. You will always be our “Ambassador of Joy" and our “Sledding Buddha”… titles we were happy to bestow and know you proudly wore. Love in our hearts for you and your family. ~Glen & Charlene, and The Gang far and wide - Posted by: Glen Knapp and Charlene Beleyowski (Friend) on: Feb 08, 2018

• Blair was one of the first people I met when I started working at RHQ 17 years ago - I always remember him for his kindness, helpfulness and sweet nature! He was such a bright light and his passing leaves us with such deep sadness. He will always be fondly remembered by everyone who knew him! RIP sweet Blair! My most sincere and deepest condolences to Blair’s family. - Posted by: Tracey McGillivray (Co-worker ) on: Feb 08, 2018

• I feel so fortunate that I knew Blair. He was an exceptional person whose kindness always made my day better. Someone so special can never be forgotten. - Posted by: Lisa Marcino Woods (co-worker) on: Feb 08, 2018

• I met Blair on my first day as a greeter at Wal-Mart. I cannot tell you how much he impacted my life. He was always so kind and accepting of those around him. I had never met such a kind and friendly human being in my entire life thus far and I don't think I'll ever meet someone quite like him. Working with him for the year and a half that i did is something I will never forget. He will forever be in my heart. My condolences to the family. Rest in peace Blair. You will be missed greatly. - Posted by: Tanner Kelly-Neault (Friend, co-worker) on: Feb 07, 2018

• Blair was one of the good guys and also one of the most genuine person I will ever meet. He was a very good listener to anything you wanted to share with him and always showed empathy to your feelings. He would put you first no matter what day he was having. I will miss his gentle soul. My condolences to the family on their great loss. - Posted by: Mario Gay (Friend) on: Feb 07, 2018

• We are devastated by the news of Blair’s sudden passing. He stood out for his exceptionally kind, considerate, and sweet nature. It was a privilege to know him. I will never forget his warm smile. He has truly inspired me to follow his good example. I would like to express my heartfelt condolences to Blair’s family. He will be greatly missed. - Posted by: Hope-Lance Pabon (Co-Worker) on: Feb 07, 2018

• Blair was definitely one of kind, always pleasant, always had a kind word to say to and about everybody, very positive attitude. He loved art and sharing his art with me, we would go to the Fringe festival at lunch, He took me to his studio, we ate our lunches there too sometimes. He had love for the culinary, he loved to try different restaurants and cooking. I so enjoyed our conversations! I will so miss you my friend, Mr. Congeniality. - Posted by: Rosemary Young (friend and coworker) on: Feb 07, 2018

• So saddened to hear of Blair's passing. Blair was a super sweet guy and always the most pleasant person to talk to. So glad I had a chance to know him. He will always be in our family photo album, as he was the first Santa my grandchild had her picture with. Rest in peace sweet Blair. Condolences to Blair's family on this loss. - Posted by: Karen Kristjanson (co-worker) on: Feb 07, 2018