Bill Blair, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away at home on Lopez Island, WA, on April 6th at the age of 80.

He was born in Indianapolis, IN, in 1945 to Robert and Olga Blair. He graduated from Weber High School in Ogden, UT, in 1963.

Bill met his wife Gayle in 1965, and they were married 2 years later in Rough and Ready, CA. He worked as a machinist for 44 years, from his apprenticeship with American Can Company in San Francisco in 1963 until his retirement from Georgia Pacific in Halsey, OR, in 2007. Bill took pride in his work and the skills he built over the years. Shortly after retiring, Bill and Gayle fulfilled their dream of moving to Lopez Island, WA.

He was a lifelong Dodgers fan, falling in love with the team as a child when they were in Brooklyn. He rarely missed a chance to watch a game. Whether they won or lost, he was a loyal fan.

Bill was a lifetime follower of Jesus Christ. He had a passion for teaching Sunday school to children and adults, and leading bible study groups, giving his time week after week to support and guide others. Bill also served as both an elder and a deacon at the churches he attended over the years, roles he carried out with quiet dedication.

Bill found simple satisfaction in chopping firewood, making wine barrel tables, crafting machine parts and baking bread. These were just some of the many ways he kept busy and provided for those around him.

He was a steady presence in the lives of those who knew him. Bill spent his life showing up for his family and for anyone who needed help. If someone asked, he was there with a smile.

More than anything, he loved his family. Bill is survived by his wife Gayle, his children, Jeremy (Erica) and Robyn (Charlie), his brother Jerry (Cathy) and his grandchildren Amelia, Kenny, Max and Henry.

A Memorial Service for Bill will be held on Friday, 2pm, July 10, 2026, at the Lopez Island Community Church, followed by a Reception.

To view listing of accommodations available on Lopez Island, visit https://www.visitsanjuans.com/stay-lopez-island Book ahead for accommodations via Expedia or Booking.com for best rates and availability.

Washington State Ferries schedule (Anacortes-Lopez) : https://wsdot.com/ferries/schedule/scheduledetailbyroute.aspx?route=ana-sj

Vehicle reservations (recommended): https://secureapps.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/reservations/vehicle/default.aspx

Buy tickets : https://wave2go.wsdot.com/webstore/landingPage?cg=21&c=76

For Lopez: Reserve westbound only; return first come. Check site for current sailings.  Special note to those who wish to walk on, please make prior arrangements with the family.

To share memories of Bill, please visit www.evanschapel.com/obituary/bill-blair