Richard Hugh Blair

Richard Hugh Blair, 87, of Peru, passed away at 4:25am on Saturday, December 7, 2019 at Blair Ridge Health Campus.

He was born in Peru on January 15, 1932 to James Luman Blair and Esther Marie Cover.  He married his wife, Arlette, in 1967 and she survives.

Dick served in the United States Marine Corps, and was a Korean War veteran.  He subsequently built an extensive career, serving the city of Peru.  He worked for the Street Department, as well as the police department, where he also served as Police Chief.  He also served three terms as Mayor of Peru. 

Dick was a man of great faith, and was a member of the First Church of Christ.  He loved his Bible, church, and family.  He was also an avid fisherman.  Most of all, he dearly loved his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Arlette, and their children: Richard “Rick” Hugh Blair Jr. of Peru, Chantal Bayles (Terry) of Peru, Amy Hiers (Bob) of Peru, Dominique (Marie) Wilson of Peru, Rhonda Elks of TN, and Diane Smiley of Peru.  Also surviving are several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Betty Jean Mislinksi, Kathleen Lassiter, and James Blair, and his son Richard “Rich” Leroy Blair.

Visitation will be held from 10am – 12pm on Thursday, December 12, 2019 at First Church of Christ, 2584 South Business 31, Peru, Indiana.  Funeral service will follow at 12pm, with Pastor Shane Capps officiating.  Burial will take place in the spring, with a family service at Mount Hope Cemetery in Peru.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First Church of Christ.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.

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