James Arno Blake
1925 ~ 2010
James Arno Blake, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend passed away peacefully on Feb 14, 2010 surrounded by family. Jim was born in Salt Lake City, on November 5, 1925 to Arno and Maxine Blake. The family moved to Salt Lake where Jim would graduate from South High. At age 19, he joined and served in the United States Marine Corps, 4th Marine Division, during World War II, which later would land on the shores of Iwo Jima. He was awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart for his heroic achievement as an intelligence Scout during the fighting on Iwo Jima. He remained active in the Marine Memorial Club throughout his lifetime. After returning from the service, he married his sweetheart, Norma N. Pexton. Together they raised their four children in Salt Lake City, Portland Oregon, and the Bay area in California. Norma passed away in April of 1979.
In 1990, he retired after 40 years in senior management with the Travelers Insurance Company, earning several awards for his leadership and sales acumen. After retiring, Jim moved to Scottsdale, Arizona with second wife Jean Nehf. Jean and Jim enjoyed many memorable years together. Jean passed away in 1999.
He met and courted Arlene Gendron and shortly there after, they were married May 1, 2000. They enjoyed their time together in Scottsdale and summers in Park City. Jim was an avid hunter, veteran angler, bowler and golfer. He was a fan of all Arizona sports teams. He supported many different charities and associations, including the preservation of nature, wildlife, and responsible sportsmanship. Jim had unfailing optimism and was an inspiration to many. Dad set such great examples of integrity, courage, wisdom and enormous strength. Dad's life was defined by compassion, honor, generosity, strength, and a strong sense of purpose. The imprint he leaves in our hearts and minds remain with us forever.
Jim is survived by his loving wife Arlene; son Tracy Randall Blake; daughter Holly Mageras (John); grandchildren, Jennifer Blake Collins (Lonnie), Laura Blake Mardis (Gavin), Jessica A. Knighton, Jaime Blake (Jason Hacker), Cassandra Blake, Steve Christopher Schroeder, (Sharyn); great-grandchildren, Blake Knighton and Kathryn Schroeder; brother, Charles Blake (Mildred); sisters Janice Hicks (Fred), Kathy Whiting and several children, grand children, and great-grandchildren from two extended stepfamilies who were also blessed to count him as one of their own. Preceded in death by wife Norma, daughter Susan, and son James Jeffrey.
Graveside services will service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 22, 2010 at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park, 3401 Highland Dr. Salt Lake City. Friends may call at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary one hour prior to services.