Donald R. Blair

Granby-Donald R. Blair, 91, passed away with his family by his side on March 26, 2025 at the Holyoke Soldier's Home.  Born in Neoga, IL on January 14, 1934, he was the son of Burnis W. and Lettie Fern (Redden) Blair.  Donald grew up in Illinois and proudly served his country in the US Air Force for 28 years including the Korean and Vietnam wars.  He worked in photo reconnaissance and achieved the rank of SMSGT.  His love of photography became one of his favorite pastimes.  After his retirement, he worked for the US Postal Service in Springfield as a supervisor for 13 years.  Donald was an active communicant of Immaculate Heart of Mary church and participated in many church functions, such as their spaghetti dinners.  He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus in Chicopee.  In the town of Granby, he volunteered during town elections and in his leisure, enjoyed hunting and fishing.  His love for cooking was enjoyed by many.  Donald will long be remembered by his wife of 54 years, Wanda, along with his children, Donna Ratner (Darren), Elizabeth McNamara (James), Bobby Blair (Laura), Joey Blair (Sharyn), Lela (Blair) Chapa (Sergio), William Blair, Mary Ubias, Michael Blair (Michelle), and David Blair.  He also leaves grandchildren, Alexia Ronnau, Andrew Ronnau, Kristen McNamara, Ashley McNamara along with other grandchildren, great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and brother, Paul Blair.  Donald was predeceased by his siblings, Mary Quinn, Helen Louise Lance and William Blair.  Visitation will be Tuesday, April 1 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the Beers & Story South Hadley Funeral Home with a funeral mass at 11 a.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Granby and military honors at the MA Veterans' Memorial Cemetery at 1pm.  In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Alzheimer's Association.