SEARSPORT and HAMPDEN Willis N. Blake, 86, died Aug. 9, 2008, after his fourth battle with cancer, at the Maine Veterans’ Home, Bangor. He was born Jan. 27, 1922, in Thorndike, the son of Milton and Nettie (Cornforth) Blake. He was a U.S. Army World War II veteran, participating in the D-Day invasion and was a U.S. Army Silver Star recipient. As a veteran he witnessed his son and grandsons all go to war and their safe return. He was a 60-year member of Marsh River Lodge AF & AM. He was past president of Searsport Lions Club and was school board member during the formation of SAD 56. He loved his trips to the Allagash camping, fishing and the outdoors. An avid Red Sox fan, he was happy to have lived long enough to see two world championships. He was predeceased by his wife of 50 years, Arlene. He is survived by five children, Marjorie Smith of Hampden, Olivia Spencer of Northfield, Geneva Blake of Washington state, John O. Blake of Troy and Milton W. Blake of New Jersey; a sister, Mary Knox of Unity; five grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Friends are asked to make memorial contributions to Hospice of Eastern Maine, 412 State St., Bangor, ME 04401 or the Maine Veterans’ Home, 44 Hogan Road, Bangor, ME 04401. Arrangements are under the care of Crabiel-Riposta Funeral Home, 182 Waldo Ave., Belfast.
WILLIS N. BLAKE
