National PELRA Remembers Past President Blaise Lamphier
52nd National PELRA Board President
Vernon Hills, IL – The National Public Employee Labor Relations Association (PELRA) mourns the passing of Blaise Lamphier of Portland, Oregon, a longtime member and former president of the National PELRA Board of Directors.
Blaise Lamphier passed away on Tuesday morning, January 6, 2026, at his home surrounded by family.
A PELRA member for more than two decades, Blaise served in leadership roles at both the chapter and national levels. He completed his term on the National PELRA Board of Directors as Immediate Past President in June 2025, following his service as Board President after accepting the appointment at the 2023 Annual Conference Business Meeting in Louisville, Kentucky.
Throughout his career, Blaise was widely respected for his principled approach to public-sector labor and employee relations. From his early life in Meriden, Connecticut, through professional roles across the country, including service at the Port of Portland, he was known for his unwavering commitment to fairness, consistency, and ethical decision-making. A Truman Scholarship recipient, Blaise dedicated his career to advancing honest and objective public-sector operations.
Though not an attorney, Blaise worked closely with legal counsel throughout his career and was recognized for his ability to thoughtfully challenge assumptions and advocate for outcomes that were fair, just, and grounded in sound principles.
Outside of his professional life, Blaise was an avid baseball fan, player, and historian, as well as a talented hobby cartoonist. He is remembered by colleagues for his intellect, integrity, and generosity of spirit.
The PELRA community extends its deepest condolences to Blaise’s wife, daughter, family, friends, and colleagues.
The Port of Portland will host a Celebration of Life and invite friends and colleagues to join in remembering and celebrating Blaise’s life, leadership, and lasting contributions at the Port of Portland Headquarters Building at 7200 NE Portland Way. Click below to view the invitation.