David “Blair” Irvine
With warm but heavy hearts, we announce the passing of David “Blair” Irvine, who left us in his 95th year. Born in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, Blair was one of nine children. He was the son of Lestra, a dedicated nurse, and David, who worked on the railway.
Blair is survived by his beloved wife of 72 years, Alma May (Walker) Irvine, and their seven children: Catherine (Francis), Halifax, David (Tammy), Kitchener, Deborah (Tony), Sydney, Andrew (Roxanne), Kitchener, Sharron, Kitchener, Joseph, Coxheath, and Lestra (Todd), Waterloo. He is also survived by his sister Karen and brothers Garth and Lowell all of Calgary.
A hardworking and resourceful man, Blair and his family helped build pipelines, railways, and even a brewery, leaving a lasting mark on the places they worked. Over the years, he worked as a pipe-fitter, railway worker, and dairy owner, traveling across the country and embracing every challenge with skill and determination. A long-term and proud member of Local 682, Blair took great pride in his trade and the projects he contributed to.
Blair was deeply involved in his community, always the first to volunteer. Whether it was helping build a local rink (an art he passed on to his children), caretaking the community pool, or loading up the neighbourhood kids for a trip to Water Fence in River Ryan, he was always ready to lend a hand. He had a passion for growing vegetables, finding joy over the years in tending to his garden and sharing his harvest with family and friends.
His legacy lives on through his large and loving family, including 10 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and 7 great-great-grandchildren, who are spread across Nova Scotia, Alberta, Newfoundland, Quebec and Nunavut.
Blair will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, and a man who found joy in hard work and laughter. He had a sharp sense of humour, a stubborn yet caring spirit, and a deep love for working with his hands. His family takes comfort in the memories he leaves behind and the lasting impact he had on those who knew him.
A Celebration of Life will be held on May 9th, where family and friends will gather to honour and remember him.
He will be deeply missed and forever in our hearts.
Donations to the Parkinson’s Society of Canada would be welcomed in Blair’s name.
Messages and condolences may be left at www.tricitycremations.com. Please visit Blair’s obituary notice on Facebook.