Francis Walter Blair

Blair, Francis Walter
EAST GREENBUSH - Francis Walter Blair, 87, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, October 7, 2025.
Born on April 10, 1938, in Keeseville, N.Y., Francis was the son of the late Walter and Marion (Hart/Bleau) Blair.
Francis was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving in Germany and Korea. After leaving the military, he worked for 20 years at Huyck's Felt Company until its closure, he then went on to complete 25 years with Amtrak before retiring. He was a lifetime member of Elks Lodge 2073 and Melvin Roads American Legion Post 1231, both of Rensselaer, N.Y.
Francis will be remembered for his generous spirit, contagious smile, wonderful cooking, and many funny stories he would share with his family and friends. He was a loving father, husband, and friend, he leaves behind a legacy of laughter and unforgettable memories.
Francis is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Pat (Arra); their children, Michael (Patrice), Marian, Maria (Frank), SantoStefano, and Susan; two grandchildren, Christopher (Stephanie) and Matthew (Jaimesa); three great-grandchildren, Aerion Danielle, Michael Benjamin, and Sawyer Rae; his sister, Nancy Toomey; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his grandson, Michael James; sister, Barbara (Paul) Anzalone; brother, Harold (Joan); and brother-in-law, Jerry Toomey.
Calling hours will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday October 18, 2025, in the Wm. J. Rockefeller Funeral Home, 165 Columbia Tpk., Rensselaer. Services will conclude with an inurnment at Memory Gardens Cemetery, 983 Watervliet Shaker Rd., Albany.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, mohawkhumane.org