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Kenneth Blair Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Kenneth Blair
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Harry Rosenthal Jr MD
February 6, 2023
I came to this page by chance when looking Ken up , I was a flex intern at Brack who 40 years later was reflecting on the most memorable docs I had had the good luck to work with . Ken was brilliant humble engaged quirky and all things wonderful. He left the world a better place than he found it. He certainly lives on in my memory .
Sue
February 2, 2022
I stumbled upon the news of Ken's passing yesterday and was too shocked and saddened to write a remembrance just then. Today I'm able to reflect on how blessed I am to have had him as my doctor during what was unquestionably the darkest time of my life and to be able to remember that time with an unforced smile. Ken saved me from suicide when I thought it was my only option. In my very first visit he recognized my need to make a specific major change that I was resisting; over the following year he gently guided me to acceptance of that need and spontaneously shared my joy at having finally been able to make it with a swift, emphatic hug. I find myself wishing I could tell him how his words of wisdom guide me to this day--and yet I feel confident that he already knows. Godspeed, Ken, on the voyage you're on now, and strength and comfort to all he left behind.
Norma
November 2, 2021
I think of you this time of year as well as many other times. Our time together was before you had Dr in front of your name. But even though it was long ago, I still remember your wild hair, black cape, and showing up at my dorm with a trash can full of snow and a bottle of wine. You absolutely loved life with all its quirks. That is why your smile was so infectious! Clearly you are still loved by many, including me.
K
October 31, 2021
Your absence has become so familiar as you are never far away. Background memories move the old, stale sadness out of perspective and shine a light on the amazing time we had together. Thank you for loving me. Thank you for marrying me. Thank you. Thank you.
Sheila Schmidt
February 7, 2021
Dr. Blair taught me so much while I worked with him at JSFP. He loved educating not only his patients but also his staff. Dr. Blair was an absolute genius, wonderful human, physician and I'm so proud to have learned so much from him.
Rest peacefully Dr. Blair.
May 14, 2020
Still. Quiet. Love.
December 21, 2018
You are blessed among those in heaven. Enjoy it up there as many in in the world waits for the Christ child. I miss you and think of you often. I shall never forget your smile and goodness.
December 20, 2018
Blessed Yule, Ken!
The stars are out and the air is crisp as we move into this w I enter solstice. A fire burning in the pit. You would love it.
Tami
March 22, 2018
Dr. Ken delivered my son Ryland back in 1986, and I remember so well what a wonderful gentle person and friend he was, easing my anxiety about having a child. I met him through the People's clinic, and was thrilled to know that he was going to deliver my child. Googled him today, and shocked and saddened to hear of his passing. So sorry.
October 7, 2017
Thinking of you as we near that time of year. I know you, good soul, are in heaven, likely enjoying conversations with "Profit Thomas" as you used to say! You had the very best sense of humor. But most of all, you had the compassion for your fellow man that so few seem to have these days. Norma
October 6, 2017
Not a day goes by without thoughts of you. You still speak to me, you fill my heart with your kindness and wisdom, I feel your hand in mine when I need to know you're here. The world needs your light. love.
March 17, 2017
Still and yet...you know.
Missing you.
Tamara (Blair) Pastor-Lacey
November 15, 2016
Kenny B you are missed. I so enjoyed your warm spirit over this Samhain's bonfire. Brightest Blessings my love.
Rhvonda Launsby
December 16, 2015
Loved Dr. Blair was googling him to look him up saddened to learn of his passing. He was a great man I remember he came to my birth at Austin community birth center and his only concern was he get home in time to see the roadrunner cartoon. Prayers are with you and family
November 1, 2015
Yes, you are in the stars. And the effects of all you gave to so many are still present here on earth. You are a most wonderful being. Norma
November 1, 2015
You once told me to turn around, from time to time, so that I can see how far up the mountain I have climbed.
Today, in Thailand, I turn with you still by my side.
Michael B., West Palm Beach, FL
October 31, 2015
Your light still shines in all who were loved by you. In all who loved you.
October 31, 2015
5 years. Always present in my heart. Thank you for your love and the many gifts you shared with so many of us.. I see you in the stars.
Louise Warren
December 1, 2014
Just sitting here,I happened to think back on my former doc,Ken Blair, and I googled him.I am shocked to hear of his death. He was my physician, my friend, for well over a decade. What a wonderful man he was!! So compassionate, great sense of humor - he lit up every room he entered. The world seems dimmer today.
November 1, 2014
I think of you often, but when I think about you on Halloween--I smile!
October 31, 2014
Four years gone. Definitely not forgotten.
June 6, 2014
I miss you so very much . Not just for me but for all whose lives you touched and those who needed your kind touch. Thank you for loving me. Loving you was my privilege.
May 3, 2014
Such a great doctor! I am in transition and reflecting on my past so I thought that I would try to find out what happened to this man who had such a great effect on my life. I had no idea he lived with HIV/AIDS as I did, let alone that he had died. I am truly sorry for everyone's loss.
Because of you, I have enjoyed many beautiful sunrises
Michael Benn
May 1, 2014
April 30, 2014
Dr Blair was a wonderful doctor; diagnosing with compassion and true concern for his patients. I loved having him as my doctor, and miss him terribly.
May 11, 2013
I know you look down on us from the stars. We miss you so.
a friend from long ago
June 7, 2012
I am a former patient of Ken's; a few years ago, after leaving Austin, I looked up his contact info to write & tell him he was the best/kindest/most patient/gentle [insert superlative] doctor and friend I have had. I shied off sending that letter, and this obituary is what I found when I re-searched him today. What a profoundly blessed man who profoundly blessed too many others to count. I was one of the lucky ones.
Annemarie Micklo
Clearwater FL
Michael Benn
April 25, 2012
I was deeply saddened to find out of Dr. Blair's passing. My condolences go out to his family and many friends. He surely lives in my heart, and I know he will always live in the hearts and lives of those he touched.
Ken in Pompeii in 1973
norma fries
April 18, 2012
norma fries
March 25, 2012
I had the immense pleasure to be with Ken throughout undergraduate school at the University of Dallas. I did not know until tonight about his passing. I am so sad to know that someone who was so compassionate even in his 20's has left this world. he and I were inseparable during those 4 years and I will never forget them nor him. May he find peace.
karen tarnower
March 5, 2012
KB...not a day goes by that my heart is not heavy with your absence. I wonder if my life will ever find a way back out of the explosion. I love you so much, miss you so painfully. More change is coming...how I wish you were here to give me your exquisite guidance. I love you, dear husband, my beloved. It wasn't perfect, but it was the best I ever had! KB
November 25, 2011
On your birthday...you are missed, you are loved. The world is a much sadder place without you.
Samantha Huff
November 12, 2011
God bless the family of this compassionate man.
November 11, 2011
"One smile for all. One heart of gold. One of the best this world could hold. Never selfish, always kind. What a beautiful memory to leave behind.
Listen, there's a hell of a good universe next door...let's go!!!!"
Tamara Pastor-Lacey
September 4, 2011
God speed, Kenny. I just found out about his death today when I had an urge to google him and see where he was. I was devestated to find his You Tube memorial. Ken was the most interesting and wonderful person I have ever know. We met and married too young to know how to make it work, but he has remained the love of my life for 35 years. I have only fond memories of Ken and the Blairs, Bob abd Betty, Jerry and David. I wish them all the best of love and peace, and will keep Kenny and Bob in my prayers. Tamara Pastor (Blair) Lacey
July 11, 2011
You know how every once in a while you meet someone who is truly, deeply good? Not just nice, not just kind, not just peaceful or fair..... not simply a constellation of good things, but more than that. These people surprise me and give me lasting hope. Dr. Blair was a good man. I'm very, very sad to hear of his passing. Thank you, Dr. Blair.
Kimtraila Williams
July 4, 2011
To: Dr. Kenneth Burnley family:Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Although it’s difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, may looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow
May your heart and soul find peace and comfort.
May the blessings of love be upon you, May its peace abide with you, May its essence illuminate your heart, Now and forever more Blessing
Hold tight to memories for comfort, lean on your friends for strength and always remember how much you are cared about.
We pray the love of God enfolds you during your difficult times and he helps you heal with the passage of time.
May the love of those around you help you through the days ahead.
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Our hearts go out to you in your time of sorrow.
Perhaps they are not the stars, but rather openings in Heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know that are happy.
Do you need a condolence message and you don’t have any inspiration? Welcome to our site. Our condolence messages collection will help to choose the perfect message for your situation.
You have my deepest sympathies on the death of your love one.
God Bless,
Kimtraila Williams
In the night of death, Hope sees a star, And listening love can hear the rustle of a wing.
Whom the heart of man shuts out, Sometimes the heart of God takes in, And fences them all round about, With silence ‘mid the world’s loud din.
Remember that we love and care about you.
November 25, 2010
KB...Happy Birthday. I love you, always, all ways. KB
Foster Foreman
November 15, 2010
Please accept my sympathy for the loss of Ken Blair.
His care for our family in small and in life-changing matters is unforgettable. I do so wish he were still here.
dawn johnson
November 14, 2010
The light went out when he left the building... just one girl's opinion from far, far away... that being said... Dr. B was so everything, he was a true hero. I loved to think of him as the "cowboy" because, cowboys don't necessarily stick to the rules; they do the job that needs to be done; however that may need to happen.... let's celebrate some of that attitude; it can only help all of us!!
Deeply miss you Dr. B; and my best wishes to your family.... Ken would want you to know you can call anytime!!! miss you DPC!!!
Russ Gregory
November 11, 2010
Ken was one of the most amazing people I have ever met. He helped Tom Barr through his transition and me through the darkness of lost love. He told us the truth when no one else would and I will always be grateful for his gentle understanding.
Steve Crow MD
November 8, 2010
It was my pleasure to work with Ken for many years at the David Powell Clinic. When he left, he wrote a goodbye letter to all of his patients and copies were distributed by the clinic. I will never forget watching one of his patients fold up her copy of that letter, and saying: "I will keep this always."
Ken Blair was a great doctor and a great human being. Like everyone assembled on these pages and everyone at his memorial service, I will miss him very much.
Don Massa
November 8, 2010
Ken Blair and Carol Cody, the Jefferson Street duo, changed my life, my path, my thoughts, my dreams, and taught me how to laugh again. I can't help but think that the two of them are off somewhere, explaining sweetly to the powers-that-be that they should "rethink being perfect -- it leaves you no where to go but down." For theirs was the nonjudgmental, gentle life of moments and memories. My earliest thoughts with them go back to sitting in the middle of a half finished Christopher House, thanking God that the cheap wine someone had gifted us earlier that day had helped make the idea of building one of the nation's first AIDS hospitals almost plausible. Once the house opened, I watched them as they helped stranger after stranger step through fear to at least a brief stay in comfort. I remember one particular day, when Carol and I ran desperately out to some mission of mercy, and she double parked in the busiest section of downtown Austin, explaining that all would be well as she stood and drew a circle of white light around her less than polished car. I quietly wondered what it would be like to walk home in 110 degree heat after her car was properly towed. But when we returned, there was no ticket. There was no problem. As always, there was a simple, honest belief in life. That the best could come. That was the same belief that Ken, Carol and the many whom they befriended shared among themselves and with others. I don't know what the world isn't with them gone, but I do know what it is since they were here. . . it is a place of hope, it is a place of laughter, it is place of nonsense, it is a place of wisdom, it is a place of peace, and it is a place where everyday, in someway, I come across a thought, a sight, a smell, a voice or a pause where they are still with me. I feel sorry for myself this evening in that I won't see either of them again for years. But damn if I'm not one of the richest men anywhere for the time I was allowed in on their party.
Kay Cooper Bond
November 8, 2010
Ken was my doctor and my friend. He touched the lives and hearts of all that knew him. He will be missed.
November 7, 2010
I did not have the good fortune to know Ken Blair as well as many others but he had a profound effect on me. He was a learned gentleman of the old school and quietly rose to the stature of a warrior saint when his practice was engulfed by the AIDS epidemic. It was his heroism which inspired me to step up and use the tools of the Chinese medical tradition to confront HIV disease. This ultimately led to the development of the Austin Immune Health Clinic. Using acupuncture with a socially marginalized and infected population was met with considerable criticism at the time. Ken took a very different and genuinely scientific open attitude from the onset. He grew to have collegial respect for our work as he saw we were making a difference in the lives of the patients we shared. I had a wonderful ongoing East meets West medical dialogue with him which always left me and still leaves me inspired to be a better clinician.
Kens compassion was extraordinary and transformative. He knew the limits of the treatments available and filled the void with his own heart and soul. I remember being at the bedside of a patient of his who as he lay dying thanked God for knowing Ken in the very last moments of his life.
As someone commented on here earlier he was indeed, love made visible. My sincere best wishes to Karen and the Blair family.
Brian McKenna Lic Ac.
Lorraine Walter, RN
November 6, 2010
Karen you are a strong and courageous woman who loved Ken deeply. There aren't many people in this world who would fall in love and care for someone they knew would not be with them for a long time. You are an amazing human being.
Everyone either admires, loves or respects the man Ken Blair was. I, like most of you am grateful that our paths crossed.
I agree with a colleague who said he had the most intelligent mind and caring soul of anyone she had met. I would suspect “genius” yet he could explain the most complicated medical items so that anyone could understand. He remembered everything!!! Recalling in an instant medical studies he'd read; he'd throw in quotes from movies or books in the middle of conversations.
He loved -- The patient dying at home and the woman who made him feel like a teenager again.
Yes, he was pioneer; not only in treating HIV patients in central Texas, but in body while staying in a cabin in the woods and in spirit “may the force be with you”.
He was an artisan. There are beautiful pieces of wood that he changed into unique pieces of furniture. He excelled in chalk board and exam table paper drawings.
His sense of humor was ever present and his eyes always seemed to have a sparkle.
When Ken saw patients, time stopped. He healed body and spirit. He would attempt any procedure short of major surgery to keep patients from having to go to the hospital. He knew about their ailments, their troubles, their families and his hugs were sincere and healing.
We had medical record audits periodically and Ken was called out because of his unorthodox and unofficial abbreviations in patient charts. The most famous of these I'm sure would be his words to you today.
K U T G W (keep up the good work)
Ken, you have a left a gigantic footprint on this earth and I suspect you are learning the answers to the things you happened not to know. Enjoy your eternity “to infinity and beyond”.
Peggy Frasier
November 6, 2010
Ken Blair was my doctor and my friend. He always made me feel understood and honored and, somehow, also kept me from feeling alone or scared. I am grateful he was in my life and will hold his memory close. He will always serve as a sweet reminder of the decency and goodness of mankind at its finest. I extend my heartfelt sympathy to his family for their loss. Godspeed, Ken.
Tim Stevens M.D.
November 5, 2010
Dr. Ken Blair was one of the most capable and thoughtful Family Medicine residents during his time on our Internal Medicine Service at Brackenridge Hospital in the early 1980s. My son Hal and other members of St. George's Episcopal Church are devoted in their support of the clients at Christopher House. I had not been aware that Ken was one of the founders of Christopher House, but having known him, I am not at all surprised. My heartfelt sympathy to his family.
butch lawson
November 5, 2010
dr.blair helped me when my friend, fred weyrich, was dying of aids.
i will remember him fondly and extend deep sympathy to his family.
Gary Werntz
November 5, 2010
I crossed paths with Ken through the nightmare of the early nineties, and was able to work with him everyday at DPC once the hope started to glimmer. Ken was warm and funny without trying, and one of the smartest men I've ever met. Working with him was always fun, and I learned a lot from him. The years that I worked with Ken and Gail at DPC, with the worderful staff there at the time, were the most rewarding of my career so far. Those were the golden years at DPC. Ken will be missed, remembered and never replaced.
Wanda Mayes
November 5, 2010
Words cannot fairly describe Dr. Blair. He was so many things to so many people and was loved by everyone he encountered, especially his patients. He never rushed his care and his patients never complained if he ran a little late (which was all the time). However, each patient always had his undivided attention and would refuse to see anybody else. You could ask him a thousand questions and he would answer every one of them with a smile. His love for the infectious disease population inspired his coworkers and forced them to be on top of their game every single day. Dr. Blair was one of the brightest physicians I have ever had the pleasure to work with. The Austin community has loss a pioneer that invented the “cutting edge” when you say HIV treatment. By the time everyone else became aware of the new trend, he was already on to the next new discovery. My love for this population of patients was greatly influenced by the wonderful, funny, nurturing, witty and loving character he always portrayed. It has been an honor to learn and work alongside such a special man. I pray for Comfort and Peace for those who loved you most.
Pris
November 5, 2010
Dr. Blair had a smile and kind word for all. He gave us so much. Thank you, Dr. Blair.
Donald Counts
November 5, 2010
Ken Blair was an inspirational person to be with as a colleague.
We shall miss his insight and compassion.
What a wonderful and glorious man.
Donald Counts
Lori Em
November 5, 2010
Dr. Blair is the most compassionate human I've ever met. I always felt like the rest of the gang even though I was only the abacus at DPC. He taught me to look behind the dollars and get to the needs of our patients.
November 5, 2010
a one in a million man.... Mary Cunningham, Austin, TX.
Lupe Zamarripa
November 5, 2010
Ken, you went and built a center for people like me to go and die without fear of doing it alone. Thank you. You were a true general, a warrior in this vicious war against AIDS. You have shown us how to die, like a true master. You continue to path the way for the rest of us behind you. Thank you for your living and dying story. Oh, and thank you for the wooden walking cane you cut for me when I was very ill.
Randy and John Huke
November 4, 2010
Ken was a natural healer, recommending books and movies as prescriptions. His humanity and warmth was evident in every hug and every conversation. We feel honored and extremely lucky to have known him. When John got blown up on a movie set, he not only healed his 2nd degree burns, but eased his mind. Forever in our hearts. Deepest condolences to his family.
M S
November 4, 2010
Dr Blair, you were one of the kindest and most compassionate of human beings that I had ever known. Your heart was so big and beautiful.I thank my lucky stars for having been given the opportunity to work with you at the David Powell Clinic. It was a true privilege and you will be dearly missed.
Ken's Med School graduation picture
Gail Hovorka
November 4, 2010
November 4, 2010
ken blair was so wonderful to me. he was my mentor at people`s clinic, and swept me up in a love of medicine and patients ( and bad diagrams... i use table paper) he encouraged me to apply to medical school, assuring me that if i could hold a big stack of hospital charts, a coffee cup AND hit the door opener with my elbow I was IN! he was right. i mourn the loss. tricia hanley
Judy Purgason
November 4, 2010
I want to express my gratitude for Dr. Blair's skilled and respectful care of my brother during his illness in 1987 and 1988. He helped him when others would not. We need more people like him.
Terry Harris
November 4, 2010
Although I never met Ken Blair, I knew several people in the beginning of the AIDS epidemic who he treated and cared for. And when I mean cared for, he did just that, according all that he came in contact with. My hope is that at the end of his fulfilling life, he was surrounded by the same caring, loving people from Christopher House, a place Ken helped found. After reading all the entries in his guest book, I only wish I had taken the time to seek him out and thank him for taking care of people who had no one else to turn to. May we all strive to live as meaningful a life as Ken Blair did!
Scott Patterson
November 4, 2010
Ken and I met in 1968. We motorcycled, scuba dived, skydived, flew, backpacked, sailed, and built furniture together. He was my mentor and friend.
Here's some video of our adventures:
http://www.youtube.com/user/KenBlairMD#p/u/0/kyTkj0BkbZ8
Becki Ellis/Davis
November 4, 2010
Ken delivered lots of babies in the ABC at Brackenridge. I was fortunate to work with him for many years and I just loved him and his attitude towards life. I wish I could say I kept up with him, but the last time I saw him was many years ago. I have and will always have fond memories of a nice, gentle and very smart doctor, certainly not your typical doc.
Marci Spivey
November 4, 2010
Ken Blair was the best doctor I've ever known: intelligent, compassionate, humorous and persistent in helping his patients. His experience treating people with AIDS enabled him to diagnose and treat my 4-yr. old son, who has a rare genetic immune disorder. I know that my son, now 24, is alive and thriving today because of Dr. Blair's ability to treat him as a human being first - with tests, medicines and procedures meeting the standard of compassionate care. I am ever grateful to Ken Blair for my son's life; and I miss his presence. My heart goes out to his family.
Dr. Kenneth Blair & Amanda Kamaria Ames 7-3-1986
November 3, 2010
November 3, 2010
Dr Ken Blair the best person,doctor I have ever knowen I am alive today because of Dr Blair I still uses his teachings when I am in trouble with dealing with my own AIDS he was so loving and caring I thank God he was my doctor I will miss you deeply Ken my Friend my Doctor .
My heart goes out to the Blair family
Joesph D Sprague
November 3, 2010
Ken was there at the beginning of the AIDS epidemic in Austin when we had few drugs and little hope to offer.
He worked passionately and gave hope to all those he cared for.
He was an inspiration to those health care providers who had the good fortune to know him and made us better doctors for it.
Joe Spann, M.D.
Curtis Doss
November 3, 2010
The best doc I've ever known and an unforgettable human being. God bless Dr. Blair and his family.
Donita Jones
November 3, 2010
I first met Ken when I accompanied one of the first AIDS patients in Austin to his office. I was astonished at how the room just lit up when he walked in the room. His love of others was obvious and inspirational. He also served on the first Board of Directors of the Austin Immune Health Clinic now known as the Wright House Wellness Center. He was a joy to be around.
Rhonda Ray
November 3, 2010
I had the honor to work with Ken at the David Powell Clinic and what an honor it was. We worked hard and had so much fun doing it. He was always willing to share his knowledge, his humor, and his truth. Dr. Blair was the best example of compassion in action I have ever known. My life has been enriched so much by knowing Ken. He will never be forgotten.
The Heavens shine a little brighter with him there!
Cenda Price
November 3, 2010
When I broke my leg, Ken read the x-ray & we penned in 3 days hence for the cast. He was ill that day, but came into the office anyway. His description of the history & art of the plaster cast, its advantages over fiberglass ones, the 12th century Italian School at Salerno and its importance to perfecting the plaster formula used for casts filled the hour. He was exhausted at the end & I asked "Why did you come in? Someone else could have done this..." "Because I said I would," said Ken. Sound familiar? It was a privilege to have Ken for my doctor from 5th Street to Jefferson Street. Truly a life well lived. Blessings and peace to his family.
Betsy Moon
November 3, 2010
When Ken held my newborn son for the first time when Ben was 3 days old, about a quarter of a century ago, I knew that I'd finally found the doctor I had always wished for. His love and compassion and warmth came through each time I saw him. I always felt affirmed, counseled, taught, accepted, respected and loved as well as "healed", after a visit with him. His drawings on the chalkboard, his prescriptions of books to read and movies to watch, and his beautiful outlook on life made him special to all of us lucky enough to share in his life and his light. RIP in peace dear Ken. We will always love you.
Betsy Moon
November 3, 2010
When Ken held my newborn son for the first time when Ben was 3 days old, a quarter of a century ago, I knew that I'd finally found the doctor I had always wished for. His love and compassion and warmth came through each time I saw him. I always felt affirmed, counseled, taught, accepted, respected and loved as well as "healed", after a visit with him. His drawings on the chalkboard, his prescriptions of books to read and movies to watch, and his beautiful outlook on life made him special to all of us lucky enough to share in his life and his light. RIP in peace dear Ken. We will always love you.
Sister Mary Brian Bole
November 3, 2010
Sister Clodovia Lockett, SSND, was Kenny's teacher and mentor at the University of Dallas. She nurtured hundreds of pre-meds but she knew early that Kenny Blair was someone special. (She would brag about him at supper!)
Not surprised that he did well at Johns Hopkins, neither was Sister Clo surprised when he took his gold-edged education to Austin and found those underserved areas and PEOPLE and did what he did best: heal people. He healed bodies and spirits, knowing clearly which has priority.
I am sure Sister Clo welcomed him into heaven with open arms.
Sister Mary Brian Bole, SSND
Mark Coffey
November 3, 2010
ahhh jeez Ken I'm sorry you're gone. You were the first doctor I trusted and you delivered my son. You stitched me up (after hours for free), you counseled me through chemo and balanced all the god-doctors out there. You were/are the honest bright light. I'm a better man having known you. Thank you.
Laura Cooley
November 3, 2010
For 30 years I have been in one part of public health care or another. For 10 years I treated mainly AIDS patients. Though I had never met him at the time, I shared scores of patients with Ken. He is the ONLY doctor I have NEVER heard a complaint about. Only gratitude, adoration. Patients might have to wait 2 hours to see him, but NO ONE ever complained because they knew when he saw them, they would not leave his office until he answered every question they had, and he transmitted some sort of hope or comfort. When he limited his new HIV patients, he did inspire people to lie......lie about their HIV status so that he would take them into his practice unknowingly. Those of us at working with the HIV+ patients in the 90's were privileged to watch a magical process operating amidst the grief.
Many years later, I was so happy to meet him, when my friend Karen fell in love with him, and we talked about what an incredible time of humans coming together in an open, honest way and how looking back we could not know how special a time it was -a magnificent pooling of love and human compassion around us. Ken was in his element.
The last time I saw Ken, he was very sick, but upon learning that a very sick friend was suddenly having difficulty walking, he went out to his workshop at 8 o clock at night to find a wooden cane he could shorten to the proper height. Which he did, patiently cutting and sanding it smooth.........to the end he did what he could for other people in desperate need, with an expertise we all long for. I am grateful for having been in the mix with him and all the many fine patients we had the absolute pleasure of accompanying on their journey, where ever it led. And what a journey it has been. He was completely open to the magic of life and death, which is why so much light radiated from his face and eyes......He still lives in the DNA of those he comforted.
November 3, 2010
I WORKED FOR DR BLAIR AT JSFP IN THE MID 90'S,HE ALWAYS TOUCHED MY HEART BY HIS CARE FOR HIS PATIENTS. NO MATTER HOW LATE THEY WOULD ARRIVE, HE WOULD WAIT ON THEM TO GIVE THEM THE BEST CARE, AND MAYBE ONLY TO LISTEN. HIS SMILE WAS SO CONTAGIOUS, AND I ENJOYED HIS SENSE OF HUMOR. MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO HIS FAMILY. LESLIE LAWRENCE
Don Brown
November 3, 2010
Such a warm, caring,and bright physician and friend who always spent more time with each patient than business guidelines or rules declared.
Dennis Ciscel
November 3, 2010
Ken was a very good man.
Natasha Freeman
November 3, 2010
Kenneth Blair contributed to making this world a better place, We will always remember him as a beautiful person.
Debbie Steele
November 2, 2010
Dr. Blair was one of the best doctors that I have ever had! His death is such a big loss to this world. It is so rare to find a doctor who is so "human", so authentic – and was able to put himself in the place of another suffering person. I extend my sincerest sympathy to Dr. Blair's family and friends. A great man is gone from earth, but his strong spirit lives on!
David Weise
November 2, 2010
I was introduced to Kenneth Blair when one of his patients was having difficulty finding compassionate pharmacy services in the early days of the HIV epidemic. Happily, that patient found a safe haven at my pharmacy, and sang our praises to his physician, Ken Blair, and sang Ken's praises to my staff and me. Shortly after, Ken, Carol, and Becky at Fifth Street Family Practice became my family medicine "family", and began a mutual love and admiration society that we all knew was something truly special. The lessons we all learned from these amazing professionals... the medical skills, the compassion, the love, the empathy, the humor...caused all who knew them to realize that we were in the midst of something rare and wonderful, and so very special. We are richer for having known Ken Blair, and are poorer for having lost him so soon. But this I am confident of...We Will Never Forget.
You and your family are so much in my thoughts.
Thinking of you with love.....
November 2, 2010
Karen,
I met Dr Blair first at the Peoples Community clinic downtown when I was very sick. I had just arrived to Austin to join my husband with three kids.He looked at me, examined me and said I will need to take steroids. I did not want to because I knew the side effects of the steroids. He explained to me that I can deal with the side effects but I could not deal with death.I made a choice, he made me a prescription and also gave the office samples. Since my problems were lung related I had breathing difficulty. On the third day, I was able to do waht I needed to do as a wife and a mother. The second time I went back to the office he was satisfied as well as the patient of course.
When I read about his passing from the paper I was deeply sad.I will always remember him as my best doctor.
Keeping you and your family in my prayers.
Nomusa (Austin )
Steve Janda, RN
November 2, 2010
I remember Ken's smile, his sweet nature and braininess, and the amazing personal equanimity that he consistently brought to the Brack ER no matter what time of day or night that he was called by frazzled nurses to see a patient as an intern back in the 80's.
It's impossible to overstate how much unflinching courage it took to care for AIDS patients the way Ken and only a few other docs were willing to do during those early, scary years of the epidemic.
I hope his family will take solace in knowing that those of us who had the privilege of working with him always felt that Ken was more than just a physician: he was a real doctor. He was love made visible.
Gail Hovorka MD
November 2, 2010
Ken is one of my medical heroes and I had the honor of sharing an office with him at the David Powell Clinic. He was a marvelous teacher with a wonderful sense of humor, wisdom and great comforting hugs. I still use "Kennisms" in my practice of medicine. He inspired me to be a better doctor and a kinder human being. Ken's bright light is gone way too soon.
Dharanii
November 2, 2010
Dr. Ken Blair was one of the many wonderful doctors that my husband was seen by at the David Powell Clinic some 15 years ago. I was also seen by Dr. Blair on occasion. He was always "present" when he attended to us. I always felt like I was in the presence of a Zen teacher when I saw him. I always left those visits with a sense of well-being. Yes we are all better for having known him, however briefly.
November 2, 2010
You were loved and greatly appreciated! We, here in Austin would still be in the "dark ages" if it weren't for you! WE LOVE YOU.....THANKS!
November 2, 2010
Dear Karen,
You and your family are in our thoughts.
With love,
Karen and Jack O'Quin
November 2, 2010
I first met Ken when he was doing his residency at Brack. When AIDS reared its ugly head in the early "80s, Ken and two other physicians in Austin were the only ones in town that were brave and compassionate enough to embrace those poor souls, labor along with them, treating them when possible, and embracing them when there was no more hope. He was patient, kind, always available personally as well as professionally. He was a prince among men and among physicians. He eventually made the supreme sacrifice as he contracted this disease doing what he loved, caring for those who needed it most. Our world is a darker place without him. Cathie Anderson, RN, FNP
Lise Doss
November 2, 2010
Dr. Blair was one of those special doctors you never forget. He was one of few who really took the time to find out what was wrong and to heal you. I also remember that I finally got some relief from homeopathy and he said, "You can't argue with success". A lot of doctors would not have been that open. We saw him at Fifth St. Family Practice in the 80s. My kids really enjoyed his color chalk pictures showing why they were sick.
Louis Fry
November 2, 2010
If greatness can be measured by compassion and unselfish service to others, then Ken was a truly great man. His passing was far too soon, but if his and attitude can be multiplied to those who knew them, then his spirit lives on. May God comfort his family and all who mourn his death.
Jonathan Buten
November 2, 2010
"Ken was a doctor who exemplified the best in medicine.
Courageous,talented and unbelievably dedicated.
He will be missed."
Louis Fry
November 2, 2010
I and my family knew Ken early on in his family practice here in Austin. All I can do is echo everything that has already been said here about him. If greatness can be measured by compassion and unselfish service to others, then Ken was a truly great person. His passing was far too soon, but if his compassion and giving can be multiplied to those of us who knew him, then his spirit and attitude still live on. May God comfort his family and direct the rest of us.
Sara Perkins
November 2, 2010
Ken Blair is one of my heroes, I had the honor and pleasure of working with him at the People's Community Clinic years ago. He was truly a nice guy. He was always willing to help me out when I practiced midwifery in Austin. I learned so much from him. He willingly shared his knowledge with kindness & grace. We will not forget what you did for us all, Ken! Thanks for everything.
Sara Perkins
November 2, 2010
Ken was our first family doctor at the Fifth Street Family Practice. What a great first "doctor experience" for our children. I also remember him drawing pictures on a board or directly on one of us, allowing us a glimpse of the picture he had in his mind of what was happening in our body.
Because of their manner it is hard to love many doctors. Because of his manner it was easy to love Ken. May this new dimension be as interesting as the old one.
Mark Swope, Dripping Springs
Lucio Meza
November 2, 2010
I had the honor of Ken's presence for a number of years at David Powell. Learned more from his humor & his compassion in those few years and am eternally grateful. Thank you Ken..
Kevin Stokes
November 2, 2010
I will forever remember the man that saved my life. Oh, yeah, he turned me into a lobster, and also gave me "hives from Hell"- but through it all HE NEVER FORGOT THAT I WAS SPECIAL. He always remembered the little things and took the time to help in ways that no one else would think of. He helped me get my house & always made sure I understood the disease & how it was affecting my life. The world has lost one of its angels. My deepest sympathy to his wife and family. His compassion will truly be missed, and HE will never be forgotten. Keep on keeping on, Ken. I love you!
November 2, 2010
Thank you Dr Blair. Bettie Davis , a grateful former patient.
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