Daily Sitka Sentinel

Ian Bowman Blair

Ian Bowman Blair, 24, beloved son, brother, fisherman, carpenter and close friend to so many, sadly left this world Friday, March 6. While his life was cut short, in that brief time Ian made his mark, and he affected each and everyone that he knew. 

Born September 3, 1990, in Sitka, Ian lived here his whole life. He attended Sitka schools, graduating from Sitka High School in 2009. He enjoyed athletics, his favorite sport being baseball, which he played from a young age through high school.

Ian became a commercial fisherman after high school, seining and longlining. In the off-season, he was a carpenter, contributing his talents to homes, patios, and other similar projects, his fingerprints leaving marks of love in the homes of his friends. 

Ian enjoyed spending time with his family and his many various friends. He relished the wonder of hooking and reeling in a king salmon or trout, hiking and stalking deer through the forest, muskeg and alpine. He appreciated the freedom that nature offered; his happiness and exhilaration so evident when reaching high places. Ian was so happy exploring new places around southeast Alaska, as well as other parts of the world, and was enriched by the memories and knowledge he gained through his visits to Hawaii, Montana, Mexico, Canada, Costa Rica, Spain, and many other states around the U.S. 

In carpentry and fishing, Ian recognized the value of hard work and occupation. He was happiest when busy completing meaningful work. He gained the respect and esteem from those who were lucky enough to work with him and be witness to his talents and decorum as a worker. In this he stood out.

His playful nature and gentleness bonded him with children and animals alike, especially his young niece, Austen, who adored him. He was quietly humorous with a treasured giggle, so loved by family and his friends, young and old. 

Ian had a lifelong love of good music, and to those he cared for, he gifted and shared his special newfound musical discoveries. 

His intelligence, kindness, empathy, warm smile, and open heart deeply touched his friends’ and family’s lives. He was strength for friends during difficult times. His tender, warm hugs were the best ever and they will be missed greatly. 

He was a gentle breeze upon the earth. 

Ian was preceded in death by his grandparents Robert and Jean Blair of Twinsburg, Ohio.

He is survived by his parents, Robert “Chip” and Amy Blair of Sitka, and his sister Emily Metcalf and her husband Jess Metcalf and their daughter Austen of Bozeman, Montana. He is also survived by grandparents Arthur and Becky Gittins of Hudson, Quebec, Canada, and numerous uncles, aunts and cousins who loved him, scattered throughout the U.S. and Europe.

A celebration of Ian’s life will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, March 21, in the Odess Theater (Allen Auditorium) on the campus of the Sitka Fine Arts Camp. Sharing and stories are welcome.

In lieu of flowers Ian’s family asks that contributions be made to the Alaska Longline Fishermen’s Association or the Sitka Conservation Society.