Douglas Joseph Blair

Douglas Joseph Blair

Douglas Joseph Blair, 69, of Troy, New York, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on June 25, 2026.

Born on April 15, 1957, in Troy, New York, Doug was the son of the late Charles Joseph Blair and Kathryn (Gagnon) Blair. He was raised in Cohoes and throughout his life also lived in Kansas, Texas, and communities throughout New York's Capital Region, including Troy, Watervliet, Schenectady, and Cohoes.

Doug proudly served his country in both the United States Navy and the United States Air Force from 1976 to 1979 before receiving an honorable discharge. Following his military service, he built a career as a contractor. He owned and operated his own business before spending many years as a foreman at Earth Safe in Troy, where he worked alongside his brother until his retirement.

On May 20, 1978, Doug married the love of his life, Robin J. (McCann) Blair. Their marriage of more than 48 years was built on unwavering love, loyalty, laughter, and family. Nothing made Doug happier than having all of his children together with Robin. Those moments, when the house was full, everyone was laughing, and family surrounded him, were the ones he cherished most.

Doug never met a stranger. His quick wit, infectious laugh, and endless jokes could brighten any room, and he had a way of making friends feel like family. He was loyal to the people he loved and would gladly give someone the shirt off his back if they needed it. He was famous for his favorite saying, "Man alive, on it!" and those who knew him can probably still hear him saying it today.

To his grandchildren, he was affectionately known as Poppy, Popsicle, and Batman. Whether he was dressing up in costume just to make them laugh or creating unforgettable memories together, his greatest joy came from being their grandfather. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were his proudest accomplishment and the center of his world.

Doug found happiness in life's simple pleasures. He loved camping with his family, taking long walks around the campground with his beloved Russian Blue cat, Joker, faithfully walking beside him. He enjoyed fishing with his children and his younger brother Dan, grilling just about anything, especially wild game, playing Texas Hold'em, Scat, poker, horseshoes, pool, and darts, listening to music from the 1960s through the 1980s, and spending summer evenings at Rock the Block concerts in Cohoes. He remained a lifelong fan of the Buffalo Bills and New York Yankees and had a special place in his heart for animals. Along with his beloved cats, KK, Murray, and Joker, he adored his faithful Yorkie, Max, who was never far from his side.

Doug is survived by his devoted wife, Robin J. Blair; his children, Douglas J. McCann (Janie) of Waterford, Daniel J. Blair of Troy, Michael Blair (Melissa) of Troy, Rheanna Wescott (Dan) of Petersburg, Krystal Hammer (Joshua) of Anchorage, Alaska, and William Burns (Luke) of Cohoes; his cherished grandchildren, Makayla, Dylan, Kierra, Shannon, Kristina, Zoe, Luke, Dominic, Avangelena, Skylar, Logan, Carson, Declan, Jada, Liam, Ben, Bentley, Abel, and Oona, who lovingly knew him as Poppy, Popsicle, and Batman; his great-grandchildren, Javion, Julian, Madison, Jason, Kaiomi, Esmea, Jalyza, Ny'arie, Kaziah, and Clementine; his brothers, Charles Blair (Donna), Joseph Blair (Delina), and Daniel Blair (Betsy); and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends who became family.

In addition to his parents, Doug was predeceased by his brothers, Michael Blair and Christopher Blair.

Doug's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate hospice team who cared for him, especially Falynn, Jake, Corinna, and Debbie, for the kindness, dignity, and comfort they provided throughout his final journey. They would also like to extend a special thank you to their lifelong friends, Derrico and Queen, whose love, unwavering friendship, and constant support made them family in every way and honorary aunts to Doug and Robin's children. A heartfelt thank you is also extended to Robin's sister, Danielle, for the love she has shown Doug throughout the years and for honoring his life by sharing his eulogy at his Celebration of Life. Finally, the family is deeply grateful to Doug's sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, and to everyone who surrounded Doug and Robin with love, compassion, and support during this difficult time.

In keeping with Doug's wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life was held on June 26, 2026, at the Pleasantdale Fire Hall in Troy, where family and friends gathered to honor the life of a man who meant so much to so many.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to your local animal shelter or homeless shelter in Doug's memory. Doug never hesitated to help someone in need, whether they walked on two legs or four, and honoring that kindness would have meant the world to him.

Doug measured a life not by what you owned, but by the people around your table. He leaves behind a family who adored him, friends who became family, and generations of children and grandchildren who will forever hear him saying, "Man alive, on it!" His laughter, kindness, and love will be missed beyond words but remembered every single day.