It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of a dear son, father, brother, uncle and friend. David Franklin Blake was born in Kenora, July 17, 1966 and passed away January 30, 2024 at the Ottawa General Hospital.
David called Kenora home all of his 57 years. He loved being involved and volunteered with the Harbourfest committee for many, many years procuring top notch entertainers for that weekend. In 1991, David was proud to be elected to the Kenora Town Council, service one term.
Horse racing drew his interest and over several years shared ownership of a few. He was proud to have won 2 Assiniboia Downs Handicapper of the Year trophy and a trip to Las Vegas. David’s employments included Boise Cascade, BDO Dunwoody and currently co-management of cafeterias at Beaver Brae and Thomas Aquinas high schools.
In October of 2021, David was diagnosed with stage 3 Multiple myeloma. He underwent a stem cell transplant in March 2022 and was so hopeful to be included in a drug trial for this type of cancer. Unfortunately, by the time he was transferred to Ottawa, January 2024, Doctors determined his condition was too advanced. David was a fighter, never giving up and in doing so proved to the Doctors several times just how determined he was.
David was predeceased by his beloved grandparents, sister Sheryl and many aunts and uncles.
He is survived by his mother Harriett, father Robert (Sandra), brother Donald (Karen), his pride and joy, son Austin (mother Sheri), nephews Aaron (Nikki), Preston, Lincoln, stepsisters Cindy, Jennifer and families. We are grateful to Angie and the Coffell family for their devotion to David.
It’s been quite a journey. Full of hopefulness and plenty of disappointments. The fight against Multiple Myeloma was never easy but well fought.
Many thanks to Dr. Al-Katari, medical team and nurses at TBRHS. Also, thanks to Dr, McCurdy, Patrick and the nursing staff, 5th floor east, Ottawa General Hospital. Thanks also to the Chemo and Lab gals at the Kenora General. Heartfelt appreciation to the many friends who reached out during David’s journey.
Many thanks to Cory and staff at Brown’s for their expert leadership. Great appreciation to Dean Woodbeck for honouring David at the private graveside service. A Celebration of Life will be held the middle of Summer 2024.