Ishmael Blake

Ishmael Gary Blake, 80, of Columbus, passed away peacefully early Thursday morning, September 14, 2017, after a lengthy battle with interstitial lung disease. He was surrounded at the time of his death by his wife of 58 years, Mary, and loving daughter Kendra, and knew how much his family loved him. Gary was an avid reader and also loved to hunt, fish, and garden. He adored his grandchildren and great-granddaughters. Gary had an excellent sense of humor and loved to make others laugh. He served in the United States Air Force and was a proud American. Gary was a Christian of great faith and belonged to Heritage Free Will Baptist Church. He will be missed dearly by surviving family: wife Mary Elsie (Wellman) Blake; daughter Kendra (Paul) Rockwell; granddaughter Lauren (Cole) Bryant and great granddaughters Margaret and Evelyn; grandsons Paul Rockwell and Nathan Rockwell; sister Connie (Bill) Filippi; brother Pat (Susie) Blake; sister in law Vicki Blake; several nieces and nephews, and many friends. Preceded in death by parents Ishmael and Carlita (Jackson) Blake, infant sister Darlene Blake, brother Mike Blake, and many other extended family members. Family will receive friends Monday, September 18, 2017 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at GRAUMLICH FUNERAL HOME, 1351 S. High St., where service will be held Tuesday, September 19, 2017 at 11 a.m., Rev. Dr. Tim W. Stout officiating. Interment with military honors to follow at Obetz Cemetery. To sign and view Gary's online guest book please visit www.graumlichfuneralhome.com