Richard Blair

Richard W. Blair, 91, of Chambersburg, passed away of natural causes in his home on Sunday, November 25, 2018. Born on February 20, 1927 in Chambersburg, he was a son of the late Lester H. Blair and Grace L. Wagner Blair. He graduated from the former Chambersburg High School in 1945, and then proudly served his country with the U.S. Navy, through World War II.

After the war he studied at Penn State Mont Alto and St. Louis Business College, before taking a position with Hershey Foods. He later transferred to Pet Inc. in Chambersburg, where he devoted 31 years, retiring as office manager.

Dick was an active member of First Lutheran Church in Chambersburg, where he served as Assistant Sunday School Superintendent, substitute S.S. Teacher, greeter, usher, and member of the Building and Music Committees. He served as District Boy Scout Master for 12 years, guiding 50 young men to the rank of Eagle Scout. He was also a recipient of the Order of Merit and Silver Beaver awards, and the Highest Church Lamb award for his service to the youth. Dick was a lifelong athlete, having played for the Chambersburg Cardinals, managing the Chambersburg Maroons, and helping to found the local adult church softball league. He was a member of the VFW Post 1599, American Legion Post 46, and the Chambersburg Club. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, and spending time with his grandchildren.

Dick was preceded in death by his wife, Annabelle Snyder Blair on Christmas Day of 2008. He is survived by one son, Richard W. Blair (and wife, Terri), and grandchildren, Graham, Connor, and Meaghan Blair, all of Keedysville, MD.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 1, in First Lutheran Church, 43 W. Washington St. Chambersburg, with Pastor Jane Nicholson officiating. A private family burial in Lincoln Cemetery will precede the service. The family will receive friends in the church fellowship hall directly following the memorial service. Arrangements are entrusted to Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home, Chambersburg. Memorial contributions may be made to First Lutheran Church at the above address.