Donald Harold Blake

Don was born on February 14, 1935 to Evelyn and Harold Blake in Ohio. He and his sister, Janis, grew up in Quincy, Ohio in a farming community. His curiosity led to a love for learning, which blossomed into a love for writing.

He received a Bachelor's degree in journalism from Bowling Green University. Following graduation, he served in the United States Army from 1959-1963. After his time in the Army, he went to school to receive a Master's degree in Communication from Michigan State University. He took a job in Denver, Colorado putting his communication and journalism degree to work with Channel 7, IBM, National Jewish, and JD Edwards.

Over the years, he received many awards and accolades in the US Army and throughout his public relations/marketing career in multiple industries from Health Care to Computer Journalism.

In 1987 he met his wife, Linda, at TUMC (Trinity United Methodist Church) and they married in 1988. In 1992, Don and Linda expanded their family with the adoption of Beverly and Valerie.

His love for writing was apparent when he updated the history of TUMC in 2009. In 2013, he published a memoir "A Nickel and a Gallon of Gas". He continued to write everyday, even in his illness, poetry, short stories, and observations.

He remained active in TUMC for many years with leadership in the adult transitional group and newsletter.

In 2003, he started as an active volunteer in the Space Odyssey exhibit at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science until 2020. He gave presentations, tours and taught children as well as adults about space.

At the end of 2020, he started his long fight with illnesses that kept him away from his loving family. Linda and Valerie made sure to be by his side until God called him home.

Throughout his illness, he maintained his sense of humor, love for the Broncos, writing, photography, space and classical music.

Don is survived by his wife of 34 1/2 years, Linda; daughters Beverly, Valerie and Krista; grandchildren Jr, Cassie, and Jordan; great grandchildren Marcelous and Ivy.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary Jane Blake, parents Evelyn and Harold Blake and sister Janis Blake.

A Celebration of Life for Donald will be held Sunday, April 16, 2023 at 2:00 PM at Trinity United Methodist Church, 1820 Broadway, Denver, CO 80202.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.olingerchapelhill.com for the Blake family.