Blair Bruce Gibson

Passed away peacefully April 5 in his 87th year. Blair leaves his beloved wife of 64 years, Joyce, daughter Sandra, son Robert (Christine) and grandchildren Megan, Lauran, Michelle and Meaghan. Blair was born in Parry Sound, Ontario, the son of the late William Gibson and Laura Snow. He grew up in Capreol, Ontario and was the recipient of the McCrae Gold Medal for academic excellence at Capreol High School. In 1942 Blair joined the RCAF in the newly created RADAR unit. When told that he would not be posted overseas, he met, fell in love with and married Joyce Welsh in 1943 in Montreal. Scant months later, seconded to the RAF, he found himself in the middle of the war in Europe. Postings followed in London, during the V1 and V2 rocket attacks, Scotland, Holland, France(on top of Mont Ventoux) and Germany. Upon his return to Canada, he and Joyce lived in Montreal where Blair completed a B. Comm. at McGill University and shortly thereafter his C.A. He joined the firm of Creek Cushing and Hodgson and quickly became partner. In 1965 CC&H merged with Price Waterhouse and Blair became the partner specializing in mergers and acquisitions. Professionally, this was the golden era of Blair's life. In 1982, Blair retired from active practice, although he continued to be called upon by ex-clients and ex-partners for his expertise. In 1986 he and Joyce bought a house in Eagle Lake (Haliburton) which was the base for his grandchildren to learn to swim (even on May 24 weekend) and fish. Michelle still remembers trying to catch "that little devil". In 1994 Blair and Joyce moved down to Toronto to an easier-to-maintain condo. Travel was always a very important part of Blair's life with his family. Whether it was Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire in the 1960's, Spain in the 1970's, or Hawaii and Florida in the 1980's and 1990's, Blair and Joyce always loved having family travel with them. Sandra and Robert saw much of the world with their parents and that wanderlust is now ingrained in them and their own children. The last year was particularly difficult for Blair and his family. The onset of dementia and immobility due to a broken hip forced Blair to seek Assisted Living and he found it difficult to be away from his wife. Blair's only regret is that he did not leave this world in his preferred manner; to be shot at 104 by a jealous husband. Many thanks to the caregivers at Sunrise of Unionville. Friends may call at the R.S. Kane Funeral Home (6150 Yonge Street, at Goulding, south of Steeles) on Wednesday, April 9th from 2:00 p.m. until time of Memorial Service at 3:00 p.m. Cremation. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Alzheimer Society and please make a point to thank a Veteran.