Hector Dennis Blais

September 26, 1943 – May 29, 2023
In Loving Memory ~
On Monday, May 29, 2023, after a long battle with cancer, Hector Dennis Blais passed away peacefully at the age of 79, at Ty Watson House in Port Alberni, B.C.
Hector is survived by Claire, his loving wife of 36 years; his children, Tami (Dann), Corey (Crystal), Tina (Roger), and Jennifer (Bill); and his grandchildren: J.J., Jordyn (Norman), Cole, Paige (Trevor), Taylor, Mason, Ben, Clara, and Claudia.
Hector was born on September 26, 1943, in Canwood, Saskatchewan, to Elizabeth and Patrick Blais.
Hector was predeceased by his parents and three of his siblings (Michelle, Paul, and Lucie), and he is survived by his siblings: Agathe (Gaétan), Louis, Claude, Danny (Judy) and Norman (Patrick).
He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Ann; his sister-in-law, Karen (Greg); and brother-in-law, Glen; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Hector worked at the pulp and paper mill on the Alberni Inlet for 37 years, until his early retirement in 2002. He enjoyed his work on the boom and operating the tugboat “Alpulp 7” and was known for frequently pranking his workmates.
In his younger years, Hector was an avid team sports participant, playing ball and hockey. He was a diehard “Habs” fan. In 1967, Hector bought a brand-new Camaro and in recent years he restored it and brought it to car shows, winning many trophies.
Growing up in Saskatchewan, Hector learned gardening skills at the 4H Club, and he always loved gardening – sharing much of his produce with family, friends, and neighbours. When Hector’s mother, Betty, was living at Abbeyfield, Hector visited her there and shared jokes and laughs with the residents and staff, and he continued his involvement with Abbeyfield after his mother passed away. Each morning at 7, Hector could be found at McDonald’s on Redford Street with his friends, enjoying his morning cup of tea.
Family was very important to Hector, and he cherished those relationships. Hector had a deep faith in God which brought him comfort as he neared the end of his life.
Arrangements were entrusted to Yates Funeral Home and cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held and announced at a later date.
The family wishes to thank Dr. H. Nell, Dr. Johnston, Dr. Woodley, the community care nurses, and the staff and volunteers at Ty Watson House for their care of Hector during his illness.