24-Dec-1940 - 20-Feb-2025
Blake Smith, 84, passed away peacefully at Georgian Bay General Hospital. Blake was born on December 24th, 1940 in Hamilton, ON. He is survived by his wife Marilyn E. Smith of 40 years of marriage. He is predeceased by his parents Reid and Gwen Smith, his brother Roger and his mother-in-law Pearl Delo. He is survived by his sister-in-law Marilyn A. Smith, brother-in-law John Delo, and sister-in-law Mary Forndron. He will be remembered by his nieces, nephews and his great nieces and nephews. He will especially be missed by the Cousens family and his music students.
Blake attended Winona Public School, Saltleet High School, and after high school he attended Ithaca College in Ithaca, New York on a full 4-year scholarship. He graduated with a B.Sc. in music education and began a long career teaching music to many students. He also received an Associate Diploma in (A.Mus.) in Saxophone Performer from the University of Western Ontario. He had the privilege of performing with Orchestra London during his time in Goderich. He was the conductor of the Goderich Laketown band for several years before moving to Penetanguishene. He had award winning bands and ensembles. When he retired from Penetanguishene Secondary School, Blake formed a saxophone ensemble which he had until 2019. He also played on Sundays at St. Mark’s Anglican Lutheran Church.
Blake enjoyed his music very much but also camping, walking, and just sitting on the deck of the cottage watching the boats go by.
As per his request, cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Nicholls Funeral Home and a service of remembrance will be held on April 12, at 11:00 am at St. Mark’s Anglican Lutheran Church (303 Third St, Midland, ON.)
If desired, donations in memory of Blake may be made to St. Mark’s Anglican Lutheran Church or to the Midland Music Festival or Protestant Separate School Board – Music Department.
