Robert Grant Blair

Robert “Bob” Grant Blair passed away on February 7, 2026, at the age of 67, in Banning, California, with his wife by his side. He was born on January 19, 1959, in Rockford, Illinois, to Jacques Clarence Blair and Nancy Ann Blair.

Bob’s father served in the Air Force, and the family lived briefly in Spain and Maine before eventually settling on the West Coast. He had an older sister; Kathleen (Kebbie) and a younger brother; John. Bob grew up in Santa Rosa, California, where he worked at Bennett Valley Golf Course as a kid and discovered his lifelong passion for golf.

He attended Montgomery High School, where he played both golf and basketball, graduating in 1977. During his years in Santa Rosa, Bob formed many lifelong friendships that he treasured throughout his life.

Bob went on to attend Sacramento State, where he played collegiate golf and earned All-American honors. It was during this time that he met the love of his life and future wife, Joan Blair. The two were set up on a blind date by friends, which turned into tennis, a baked ham dinner, and the rest is history.

Bob and Joan were married on January 2, 1982 at Presentation Catholic Church in Sacramento. They later settled in Southern California, where they raised their two sons, Thomas and Scott. Bob was deeply involved in his boys’ lives and coached their basketball, baseball, and soccer teams, affectionately known by many as “Coach Bob.”

Bob had the joy of seeing both of his sons marry—his older son Thomas to Patricia in 2011, and his younger son Scott to Jordan in 2019.

After a long and dedicated career spanning more than 30 years with the City of Anaheim, Bob retired and spent much of his time golfing and traveling. He especially loved trips to Hawaii to visit family, driving to Northern California, and spending time in Palm Springs.

In 2020, Bob fulfilled his lifelong dream of purchasing a home on a golf course, overlooking the 18th fairway at Sun Lakes Country Club. Bob found great joy in his community and golf team.

One of Bob’s proudest golf accomplishments was winning the Southern California Senior Amateur Championship at Wilshire Country Club in 2016, with his son Scott serving as his caddie. He also won six men’s club championships at Sun Lakes Country Club in Banning, California, and has been inducted into the club Hall of Fame.

While golf was a lifelong passion, Bob’s greatest love was always his family. He cherished time spent with his three granddaughters, Zelie, Theresa, and Romee, and he looked forward to welcoming his grandson, Ellis, who is due in June 2026.

Bob spent his final day doing what he loved—playing golf with close friends. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and loyal friend.

He is survived by his wife, Joan; his siblings Kebbie and John; his sons, Thomas and Scott; his daughters-in-law, Patricia and Jordan; his granddaughters, Zelie, Theresa, and Romee; and his soon-to-be grandson, Ellis. He is also survived by multiple nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held in Northern California on February 27, 2026 at 10:00 AM at Lind Brothers followed by a reception at the Foothill Community Center at noon. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Zones, Santa Rosa (formerly The Boys and Girls Club).