Raymond J. Blake

Raymond J. Blake Jr., 88, of Dewitt passed away on October 31, 2017. Ray was born March 3, 1929 in Johnstown, PA, to Rose Heinrich Blake and Raymond J. Blake, Sr. He grew up in Olean, NY, and graduated from Olean High School in 1947 and from Albany College of Pharmacy, Union University, 1951. After graduation, he worked as a retail pharmacist in Elmira, NY. He received officer training at Fort Sam Houston. From 1953 until 1955 he served two tours of duty as an Army medic in Korea. Upon his return from active duty, he entered the New York National Guard where he completed 22 years of service and retired as a Major in 1975. In addition, as a civilian, he was employed by Eli Lilly and Company as a sales representative from 1955 to 1991.

Ray and his wife, Carol, enjoyed following SU football and basketball and following their grandsons as they participated in lacrosse. They also enjoyed their travels to Italy, Switzerland, Germany, England, Ireland and Scotland and looked forward to spending time in Hawaii in April, waiting for winter to exit New York State. They were often joined on their summer vacations in Maine by their children and grandchildren. He liked nothing better than sailing his widgeon, the True Love, on Cazenovia Lake.

After retirement, he enjoyed spending time on the golf course at Drumlins and participating in their Senior League. He also played golf with the original Eastwood League at Green Lakes.Ray was a long time member of the Knights of Columbus and Holy Cross Church where he served as an usher and acolyte at funeral masses. He served as a board member of the Onondaga County Pharmaceutical Society and as Chairman of the Membership Committee.

He was predeceased by his sister, Rose Marie Blake Lockington, and daughter Kristin Blake. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Carol Palumb Blake, his daughters, Kellie (Michael) Alfano, Vienna, VA, and Karin (James) Hull, Charlotte NC, grandchildren, Sarah Calodney, London, Danielle Calodney, Brooklyn NY, Paige Calodney, Richmond VA, Tyler Hull, Wrightsville Beach NC and Lt. Tucker Hull, USMC, Kaneohe Bay, HI, nieces and nephews, Peter Palumb Jr., Dorothy Alexander, David Palumb, Matthew Palumb, Ann Aranda, Mary Ellen Lockington, and James Lockington.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12 pm on Saturday, November 4 at Holy Cross Church, Dewitt. Burial with military honors will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery. Calling Hours will be Saturday, November 4th from 9-11 am at Burns-Garfield Funeral Home, 3175 E. Genesee St Syracuse.