Obituary of Blair Farish

Blair was born in Ayr, Scotland, and spent his formative years in the tiny village of Dunscore. A proud Queen Scout, he traveled to Canada in 1955 for the World Jamboree at Niagara-on-the-Lake, an experience that left an indelible mark on his heart and ignited his dream of making Canada his home.

 

At 19, Blair joined the British Military, where he trained as a physiotherapist. During his time in the Medical Corps he also played for Hounslow Town Football Club, earning a pound per game—40% of an average week’s wage at the time. His military service took him to Malaya and Germany, where he served for four years before leaving the army as a Sergeant.

 

In 1966, Blair married his first wife, Pip, and together they embarked on their Canadian journey. Settling in Sarnia, Ontario, and later North Bay, Ontario, Blair established himself as a dedicated physiotherapist. The family eventually moved to Red Deer, where their son Ian was born in 1971, and then to Cranbrook, B.C., welcoming their second son, Craig, in 1972. 

 

In 1974, Blair opened his own physiotherapy clinic, quickly becoming a beloved figure in the community. The clinic had a fun atmosphere, and as the practice grew, he cherished his staff and the team of physios.  Blair’s warmth and genuine care for others endeared him to all who sought his help.

 

Blair loved Cranbrook, and he knew early on that he would never leave.  He felt at home in the countryside, he cherished the view of Mount Fisher and he loved his home at Six Mile Crossing where he lived for 35 years. 

In 1983 Blair was badly burned in a plane crash that was a pivotal moment in his mid-life.  After three months in hospital, he returned home and was determined to get back to work as soon as possible.  He began seeing patients once again while still recovering himself.  During his first year back at work, he wore a Jobst mask and gloves for his burns.  A grateful client even crafted a sign for his office, depicting Blair with the playful caption: “Who was that masked man?”

 

Blair wrote The Clockwatcher in 1988. Dedicated to his beloved sons, it documented the details of his plane crash and lengthy recovery. He also wrote an autobiography in 2011. Written as a keepsake for his grandchildren, The Frolicking Physio recounts stories from his childhood and army career.

 

In August 1997, Blair married Maureen, and together they shared many years enjoying time with family and exploring their love of travel, golfing, hiking, cycling, and snowshoeing. Embracing Maureen’s children, Ryan and Jen, he treated them as his own, and enriched their lives with his love and humour.

 

Blair was an amazing man, and all of us who knew him are better for it. He was incredibly caring, kind, generous, witty, intelligent, well-travelled, talented, loving and perhaps most importantly, he was a survivor. Blair brought the fun and personality to every gathering. He believed a good host always made sure his guests had a drink in their hand and he was masterful at making others feel welcome. He was the best of men, the very best.

 

Blair passed away on October 9, 2024, surrounded by his family and enveloped in love. He will be remembered for his zest for life, his dedication to his whole blended family, and his unwavering contributions to the Cranbrook community. As the founder of the Cranbrook Physiotherapy Clinic (CBI) and an active member of the Cranbrook Kinsmen, Toastmasters, and the Save the Track team, Blair's impact was felt far and wide. After retirement, he served as President of The Fort Steele Cemetery Society and regularly visited the Green Home and Joseph Creek, often bringing joy to residents with his little dog, Ripley.

 

Blair is predeceased by his mother, Maimie Spence; his nana, Mary Porteous Bell Farish; and three uncles: Joe, Bill, and Dick. He was also predeceased by Bill Gordon, Roy Barnett, Cliff and Pat Fowler, all dear friends. He is survived by his loving wife, Maureen; his children Ian (Tanis), Craig (Bonnie), Ryan (Megan), and Jen (Dale); his cherished grandchildren Jake (Gaby), Luke, Kenzi, Skye, Bek, Abby, Des, Finn, Rhys, and Percy, Lynsey (Chris), Sam (Spencer), Tyler (Isabelle); his great-grandchildren Ocie, Arlo, and Allie; a large extended family; and many cousins in Scotland.

 

Blair’s spirit will forever resonate in the lives he touched and the love he shared.

 

The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to special friends Bruce Williams, Michelle Sartorel, Ashlie Wetmore, Allison Kostiuk, and Gary Billmark for their unwavering support of Blair. We are also deeply thankful to caregivers Christine Marsh and Shauna Beaulac for their dedicated care. Thank you goes to Dr. Lenz for his friendship and care over many years, to the amazing work of nurses, doctors, physios, receptionists and other members of the medical community over his life, and to Dr. Post for his compassion and expertise. Thank you to the staff at Daybreak for years of excellent programming and sincere care. Thank you to the staff at Kootenay Street Village who took excellent care of Blair for 4 months.  We extend our sincerest appreciation to the incredible staff at Joseph Creek Care Village; your exceptional care for Blair and our family during this challenging time will always be remembered. Your kindness has been a true gift to us all.

 

A celebration of life will be held at a future date, to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Fort Steele Cemetery Society or to Cranbrook Community Theatre.