Peacefully, on Wednesday January 30, 2019, in his 71st year, following a long battle with a job-related illness. Blair died in the line of duty after proudly serving The City of Toronto as a firefighter for 34 years, retiring in 2012. Born in New Zealand, he moved to Canada to marry the love of his life, Alita (nee Kowal) in 1972. Dedicated father to Julie and Duncan and their spouses Dr. George Yearsley and Kate (nee Nowak). Blair's greatest joy was his four delightful grandchildren, Willow, Albert, Marigold and Isabel. Remembered fondly by his siblings Derek and Wilma, and extended family in New Zealand, Australia, and the South Pacific. Predeceased by his parents William and Shirley (Johnston). Working for the old city of Toronto originally, Blair retired out of station 424 Runnymede D platoon in 2012. He started his career at station 423 (old Toronto 20) in 1978, and did stints in fire prevention and communications before returning to operations, working on downtown Toronto Aerials. Having arrived in Canada from New Zealand, Blair was better known as "Kiwi" to friends throughout his career. Friends may call at the Turner & Porter Yorke Chapel 2357 Bloor St. W., east of Jane Subway, on Sunday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Funeral Service will be held in the Chapel on Monday, February 4, 2019 at 11 a.m. Interment Park Lawn Cemetery. Donations in lieu of flowers to Dorothy Ley Hospice, Canadian Blood Services, Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation, or the Ross Tilley Burn Centre.