Memorial for Coach Dana Blair set for Sunday
A celebration of life for Columbia River coach and teacher Dana Blair is at 1 p.m. Sunday at Columbia River High School.
Guests will be encouraged to share their memories.
Blair, who died earlier this month, coached several sports, leading Columbia River to state championships in volleyball and bowling. She also led Columbia River to the state championship game in softball. Before that, she was a pioneer for women’s athletics, fighting for equal rights during the early years of Title IX.
I loved talking to Dana. She had a special style. She wanted to win. A true competitor. At the same time, she also knew that the scoreboard was not the defining measure of her athletes. She talked about the values of high school sports, win or lose.
Of course, she had interests outside of teaching and coaching, as well. My wife and I have some of her artwork. She sold her glass work at Vancouver Farmer’s Market. Since her death, when I notice her work in our home, I just smile.
Dana Blair had a distinctive voice and laugh. She was a coach who understood the significance of competition athletics in education. She will be missed.
A scholarship in Dana’s name is being created, according to her obituary in The Columbian. For those wishing to donate, use this link: http://foundationforvps.org/donation-and-giving/ And please indicate: “In Memory of Dana Blair.”
