Pauline Blair was born and raised in Wisconsin as the much-loved only daughter of Rev. E.J. and Esther Blair. In 1940, her brother David joined the family and a year later, they moved from Milwaukee to Poynette where her father served as pastor of the Presbyterian Church. After graduating as salutatorian of her Poynette HS class in 1951, Pauline attended the University of Dubuque, Iowa, receiving her bachelor’s degree in 1955. In the Fall of her senior year, she met George (Skip) Pike, a first-year seminarian who had ventured to Iowa from Chatham, New Jersey. Although she bet her friends that she would never marry a minister, love won out and she lost her bet. George and Pauline were married on August 27, 1955. The life of a minister’s wife can be a difficult one but Pauline’s grace, humor, warmth and hospitality opened doors for them throughout over 40 years of ministry, serving Presbyterian churches in Kasson, Minnesota; Dubuque and Bettendorf, Iowa; Vancouver, Washington; Cranford, New Jersey; Louisville, Kentucky (PCUSA); Kansas City, Missouri and finally back to the University of Dubuque, where it all began.

In 1998, George retired and together they settled in Green Valley, Arizona. Over the next 15 years, Pauline shared in the joys of retirement—great friends, fellowship, good food and wonderful travel adventures. In 2013, Pauline and George moved to the Fountains Retirement Community in Tucson, where they continued to form friendships and enjoy life.

Pauline was a study in contrasts—tiny and feisty; sweet-natured and stubborn; quiet with strong conviction. She had many passions, including roller coasters, cruises, greeting cards (giving and receiving), comic strips, daily Jumble and Wordle, pretty things, Hallmark movies and desserts of all kinds--especially chocolate.

Pauline is survived by her beloved husband of 69 years, George; her daughter Elizabeth (Warren) Martin; her son George III (Deborah); her four grandchildren: Alex and Rachael Martin; Jeremy (Beth) and Benjamin Pike and by her brother David (Becky), niece Marie, nephew Matt (Amalia) Blair and extended family. She was predeceased by her youngest son, James, in September 2023.

Pauline will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Her family will gather for a memorial service in November 2025 in Green Valley. Remembrances may be made in her name to Valley Presbyterian Church, Green Valley, Arizona or to the University of Dubuque, Dubuque, Iowa.

Memorial Keepers (1)

Pauline Elizabeth Pike