Obituary of Blair Bird Boudreau

BOUDREAU, Joseph Blair “Bird”, 60 of Arichat It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph Blair “Bird” Boudreau, of Arichat that occurred at the Strait Richmond Hospital on January 22, 2024 with his family by his side. Born at St. Anne’s Centre on February 27, 1963, he was the son of the late Joseph Henry and Mary Lillian (Samson) Boudreau. He is survived by his pride and joy, his son Jake Boudreau (his mother Terry), Petit de Grat; partner Alison Serytuk, Arichat; sister Claire (Mark) Samson, Dartmouth; niece Juliette Samson; nephews Joël Samson and Jean-Marc Samson (Godson). He is also survived by his Godfather Etienne Samson and Godmother Doreen Samson (Boudreau). Blair graduated from IMDH in 1981, then went on to study Auto Body Repair at CRVS where he graduated in 1983. He would later return to complete a course in Carpentry in 1995. Over the years, he gained lots of work experience: He worked at Dort’s Motor Auto Body Repair. He also worked at Booth’s Fisheries, Premium Seafoods and most recently, Samson Enterprises for 9 years. Additionally, he spent 24 years as an overnight counselor at Isle Madame Small Options Society. During this time, he would take the residents on adventures, including dances in Grande-Anse. Growing up in Boudreauville, he and Claire spent most of their childhood playing outside with the local kids. This piqued his interest in sports. In 1979, he began his tenure with the LA Golden Hawks (Knights). He would go on to win several RABA Championships, but not before being named Rookie of the Year. #22 was worn proudly on his jersey, which would later be passed onto his son. Not only a player, he dedicated many years coaching and umpiring hardball, a testament to his love for the game. He was proud to play alongside his family, notably Jake, with the Doughnuts, also bringing home many Championship Titles during the Family Lob ball Tournaments. In 1991, his priorities changed as his greatest joy was born; “Mon garçang”. He would spend the next nearly 33 years loving his son unconditionally. He was his biggest supporter; attending every event he participated in, whether that be a hockey game, a baseball game, les Jeux de l’Acadie and everything in between. He even drove other kids when their parents were unable to make it. He was proud of him, and his love shone as he cheered him on from the sidelines. Even as an adult, Jake felt Blair’s love and encouragement right up to the very end. Over the years, he had many hobbies including hunting and painting. Hunting allowed him to spend time outdoors with his loved ones, something he thoroughly enjoyed. Painting allowed him to express his creativity, but also showed his kindness. He donated many paintings to benefits in different communities, a reflection of his love for helping others. He would do anything for anybody, a trait he was proud to pass on to Jake. He was also an active community member, attending all breakfasts and card plays. He loved going to card plays with his partner, Uncle Etienne, and could often be heard saying his famous line, “I got a plan, Uncle!”. He could also be found chatting with his buddies at the Coffee Club, no matter where it took place. He was an avid storyteller and also loved to tell jokes. When he spoke, he had the floor, as you were sure to get a good laugh. He will also be remembered for his love of singing, dancing, and his ability to be heard whistling before being seen. Though he never drank, he was often the life of the party. Although he enjoyed visiting and driving around, he also loved spending time at home with Alison and their dogs, Jax and Lilly. He was very proud of his family! A friend to all, he will be remembered for his ability to make everyone feel welcome, his caring heart and his joie de vivre. We will miss seeing him around, a smile on his face, pride in his heart and love for everyone around him. Cremation has taken place. There will be no visitation per request. The celebration of Blair’s life, that was scheduled for Saturday, February 3rd in St. Joseph’s Church, Petit de Grat, has been cancelled due to inclement weather and is rescheduled for Saturday, February 10th at 2 P.M in St. Joseph's Church in Petit de Grat, with Rev. John DeCoste officiating. Committal will be held in the Acadiaville Columbarium in West Arichat. A reception will be held following the committal at La Picasse. The family would like to thank the nurses and doctors from The Strait Richmond Palliative Care Unit. As such, memorial donations can be made to the Small Options Activity Fund or to the Strait Richmond Palliative Care Society. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to C.H. Boudreau Funeral Home Ltd., Arichat. Tributes, words of comfort, and memories of Blair may be shared with the family at www.chboudreau.com.