Blair Vold, of Ponoka, Alberta passed away on May 11 at the age of 69.
The community icon was a fixture in both the rodeo and livestock market worlds. Born in Ponoka on Oct. 13, 1955, Vold pursued a career in the cattle industry after graduating from Ponoka Composite High School in 1973.
He worked alongside his father Ralph and uncle Harry at Vold Jones & Vold (VJV) Auction Mart as a teenager. Vold even got his pilot’s licence and flew around western Canada helping secure cattle sales for VJV.
He joined the Ponoka Stampede Board of Directors in 1980, serving as president for three terms and drastically changing the landscape of the event. Responsible for organizing the infield and main concert stage acts, he always aimed to bring the most authentic Wild West entertainment to the event.
A member of the Livestock Markets Association of Canada (LMAC) hall of fame, Vold served on the board of directors for over 10 years.
Vold was deeply passionate about his work and never hesitated to support the auctioneers on his staff.
“He’s just always been a positive guy and never had a bad word to say about anybody,” said Rick Wierzda, president of the Ponoka Stampede and close friend.
Blair Vold is survived by his wife, son, three daughters and his numerous relatives.
A celebration of his life will be held on June 3 at the Ponoka Stampede grounds grandstand at 2 p.m.
Doors will open at 12:30 p.m. to allow for seating and Blair’s cocktail hour.
With information from Ponoka Stampede Facebook.