Benjamin F. Blair

Benjamin F. Blair passed peacefully on May 26, 2026, at the age of 86, surrounded by family at his home in Denver, Colorado. An ardent advocate for self-determination, Ben chose to conclude his 13-year journey with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) under Colorado’s Medical Aid in Dying law. Ben was known for his sharp wit, generosity, curiosity, and deep loyalty to the people he loved. 

Born in San Francisco, California to Benjamin and Marie Blair, Ben graduated from the University of California, Berkeley. After receiving a law degree from Washburn University, Ben built a distinguished career in real estate development and brokerage. He founded multiple companies, including Coldwell Banker Griffith & Blair in Topeka, which he owned for 30 years, and led several commercial and residential developments – including the Shores of Shadow Mountain in Grand County, Colorado.

Ben took great pride in his civic and volunteer leadership, serving organizations including the Topeka Chamber of Commerce, Washburn University, St. Francis Hospital, Merchants National Bank, Heritage Bank, and Title Midwest Holdings. He was also deeply involved with Realtor organizations at the local, state, and national levels, serving as President of both the Topeka Area and Kansas Associations of Realtors, and later as Regional Vice President and Treasurer of the National Association of Realtors. In recognition of his service, he received the NAR’s Distinguished Service Award in 1997. 

Ben was happiest among family and friends at his home in Grand Lake, Colorado, where he enjoyed reading, skiing, walking, gardening, planning real estate ventures, and caring for his cherished dogs.

Ben is survived by his beloved wife of 36 years, Marice Kane, and their dog, Professor; sister, Barrie Christensen; his three daughters and their families: Amy Blair and Bernard G. Dvorak (Ariana, Benjamin, and Bernard R.); Shelly and Jeff Stowman (Sallee Stowman and Spencer Heimark; William); and Katherine and Daragh Mulready (Thomas and Patrick). Amy and Shelly were born to Ben and his late wife, Sallee Tappen Blair, and Katherine to Ben and Rebecca Richardson. He also leaves behind seven loving grand-dogs and great-grand-dogs!

Reflecting on his life and legacy, Ben recently wrote: Life is about family, friends, and the countless people who shape us in ways both large and small. We are here to make the most of life, to serve others, and to leave our communities and the world better than we found them for those who follow. We are meant to love and support one another, and I believe we live on in how we treated people and what we left behind.

A memorial gathering will be held at a later date in Grand Lake.