James Edwin Blair

James Edwin Blair, 83, of rural Galesburg, died at 12:25 a.m. Thursday, August 18, 2016 at home surrounded by family.

He was born September 4, 1932 in Galesburg, the son of Edwin and Erstine (Weber) Blair.  He married Marian Enlow in 1954 in Galesburg.  He later married Linda L. Krans on November 15, 1958 in Rock Island.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 58 years, Linda; two sons, James Richard (and Margaret) Blair of Perryville, Missouri and Brian C. (and Audrey) Blair of Eldridge, Iowa; 10 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; and a sister, Jeanine Milem of Creve Coeur, Illinois.  He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Debra L. Glossip; and a sister, Carlene Case.

James was a paint sprayer and worked in maintenance at Outboard Marine Corporation, where he was known as “Cold Beer”, for 30 years, retiring in 1983.  He graduated from Galesburg High School in 1952.  James and his family enjoyed snowmobiling and traveling in their mobile home.

James served in the United States Army for three years, stationed in Germany.  He was a member of Ralph M. Noble American Legion Post 285.

Cremation will be accorded.  Private family graveside service will be Wednesday, August 24, 2016 in Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens.  Rev. Daniel Siems will officiate and military honors will be offered by VFW 2257/Legion 285 Veterans Honor Guard.  There will be no visitation.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Knox County Humane Society.  Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services of Galesburg is handling arrangements for the family.  Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.