SACO — Christopher James Blair, age 56 of Saco, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2019, due to heart failure, with his loved ones by his side.

He was born on Jan. 22, 1963 to Marie Blair and Joseph Blair Sr. and was the youngest of their six children. He grew up in Windsor, Maine.

From the moment he was born he had significant impact on all who met him.  He was loving and sweet, and always ready to share a smile. Life was not always easy for Chris, as he had many medical challenges as a young child.  He had a strong constitution to continue on.

He was also Deaf and enjoyed being an active member of the Deaf community, advocating for others, being a good friend, and checking in often on those in need.  He was humble, and did not boast about his supportive activities or his many accomplishments, including his “Outstanding Citizenship Award” by the Deaf Community of Maine in 2014.

Christopher attended the Baxter School for The Deaf and was a graduate of Cony High School and National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID) where he studied Printing.  He worked at Togus Veterans Administration in Augusta for 26 years as a printer, traveling from Biddeford/Saco daily.  He made many friends there, and was well liked and respected.  He had to retire reluctantly due to his health a little over a year ago.

He is survived by his Life partner of 20 years Rodney Michael Champagne, sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews and grandchildren.  He will be missed by all.

A special thanks to many interpreters, staff at Maine Medical and the Gosnell Memorial Hospice House.  Thank you.

Contributions in his memory can be made to Gosnell Memorial Hospice House in Scarborough.  www.hospiceofsouthernmaine.org/gosnell-memorial-hospice-house.

There will be a life celebration ceremony sometime in the spring. Date will be announced.

Hope Memorial Chapel, 480 Elm Street, Biddeford, ME 04005 is assisting with arrangements.

To share condolences online, please visit www.HopeMemorial.com.