James Blair, 89, formally of Hammond, IN, and of Dyer, IN, passed away on Monday, October 21, 2024. He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years and best friend, Shirley, sons; James (Debbie) Blair of Alaska, Kevin (Almut) Blair of Canary Islands, granddaughter; Erica Blair (Ron) Reilly, great granddaughter; Phoebe of Maine, sisters; Jeannette Hendrix and Helen Ables; several nieces and nephews. James is preceded in death by his parents; Robert and MaryAnn Blair, brothers; Robert, Gene, and Donald, sisters; Joyce Farmer, Sylvia Price, and Doris Sewell.
Jim proudly served in the U.S. Navy, aboard the USS Everett F. Larson. He spent 28 years on the Hammond Police Department and retired as a Detective / Sergeant. Jim was twice named “Policeman of the Year”. Following his retirement from HPD, he was the Chief Bailiff for the Lake County Juvenile Court.
Jim and Shirley spent their retirement years traveling and making memories with family and friends. One of his fondest memories was his day with the Honor Flight and meeting Colin Powell.
The family would like to express sincere thanks to Dr. Neel Shah and NP Maria Marrero from Northwest Cancer Center for their wonderful care and support for Jim during his battle with cancer.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 24, 2024 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Kish Funeral Home, Munster, IN. Funeral Services will be held on Friday, October 25, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment to follow at St. John/ St. Joseph Cemetery in Hammond, IN.
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