Michael R. Blair

ObituaryMichael R. Blair, 65, died peacefully at home in Littleton, CO, on September 11, 2021, surrounded by family and friends. Mike grew up in St. Clairsville, OH, and graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Soon after, he moved to Colorado to begin his lifelong career with Lockheed Martin (then Martin Marietta).
Mike was a man of honor and integrity, dry sense of humor, and keen intellect. As a friend and co-worker described, "He was a very special engineer- the kind that sees the big picture (system) as well as the many moving parts that make it work. He was able to untangle the fishing line when the spool runs free. His impact in both his career and personal life was significant and he touched a multitude of people – changing their lives forever in a positive way. He worked on some of the most significant national space programs in the USA – the ones you can't talk about, but the ones that protect our nation from our enemies".
Mike married his best friend and partner, Judy DeNapoli, in 2012. They traveled the world and enjoyed many adventures together, gathering wonderful friends along the way. He was an avid golfer, card player and teller of corny jokes. In addition to his wife Judy, he is survived by his mother Bettie, daughter Sarah and son Aaron, brothers Mark and Dennis, sister Becky, and four grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his father, Raymond, from whom he inherited his classic dimples and broad smile.
A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held with family and close friends on October 2, 2021, at Horan and McConaty, 5303 E County Line Rd, Centennial, CO 80122. A short service will begin at 12:30 PM, followed by community time and light refreshments until 3:00 PM. A live stream of the meeting will be available. http://bxcited.com/michaelblair/
Those wishing to honor Mike's life can make donations to:
Domus Pacis – a Breckenridge based organization that provides cancer patients and their families a peaceful and restful stay in the beautiful Colorado Mountains. Judy and Mike benefited from a very healing Domus Pacis stay just as Mike learned his cancer had returned. Checks can be sent to Domus Pacis Family Respite, P.O. Box 4424, Frisco, CO 80443. https://www.domuspacis.org
Reel Recovery - Reel Recovery is a national non-profit organization that conducts free fly fishing retreats for men living with all forms of cancer. Mike had hoped to attend one this fall.
https://reelrecovery.org/how-to-help/donate/
Prostate Cancer Foundation – A national organization that was a great source of information.
https://cure.pcf.org for information on donating.