ATHENS -Dale Errol Blake, 72, of Athens, passed away peacefully at his home in the early morning on Jan. 2, 2024 after a 15-year battle with COPD and was reunited with the love of his life.

He was born in Skowhegan on Sept. 18, 1951, the son of Errol and Betty Blake (Huston). Dale grew up and attended schools in Smithfield, Oakland and Skowhegan.

Dale entered the workforce as a teenager, learning early about the importance of working hard, having a good work ethic and having pride in a job done well. He carried these through his life working at Hartland Tannery, Norrwock Shoe, Ansewn Shoe and New Balance throughout his working career.

Dale married Sharon (Mckenney) on Oct. 26, 1973, and together they raised two children and had 33 wonderful years together.

Outside of working, Dale had many passions. He loved reading books written by his favorite author, James Patterson, and watching many old movies including westerns. He was an amazing cook, making up his own creations and was best known for his amazing baked goods and his peanut butter fudge. He learned to crochet from his mother-in-law, Gerry, crocheting many afghans, ponchos, doilies and table runners for family and friends. He loved the outdoors whether it be hunting, fishing or camping out at his favorite spot in Seboomook, roughing it in a tent. He passed on his love of the outdoors to his children and grandchildren. Some of the best times he had were him and mom packing a cooler, grabbing the Atlas and loading us all up in the car and hit the backroads of Maine, seeing and discovering many beautiful parts of the state. It wasn’t uncommon on any given trip to sometimes be at the coast in the morning and in Aroostook County by later afternoon and returning home late in the evening or the early hours of the next morning. He and mom also spent many hours and hard work gardening and canning. They also enjoyed growing gladiolus. They started with a few bulbs and it nearly took over the vegetable garden with over 1,000 bulbs. They found great happiness in bringing friends and family countless number of bouquets over the years.

Undoubtedly he loved doing anything as long as mom was by his side including helping out the Athens Victory club every year with their turkey pie dinners. The one thing he was most happy and proud of was being a Papa.

Dale was predeceased by his wife Sharon; his parents, brother Charles and sister Anita.

He is survived by his daughter, Sherry Dawes and son, Shawn Blake and Partner Cherie Boudreau, his brother Wayne and his wife Tammy; five grandchildren; Blake, Sydney, Richard, Orion and Leo; four nieces, Becky (Travis) Bessey, Amanda (Kristin Martin) Blake, Janis (John) Parent and Erica Blake, as well as several aunts, uncles and cousins.

At Dale’s request, there will be no funeral. A graveside service and gathering will take place in the spring.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Smart and Edwards Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers donations in Dale’s memory can be made to: Somerset Humane Society, P.O. Box 453, Skowhegan ME 04976

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