MICHAEL J. (MITCH) BLAKE

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MICHAEL J. (MITCH) BLAKE

On September 11, 2025, at the age of 99, Michael (Mitch) passed away peacefully after a brief illness.

Michael's favourite pastime was exchanging stories and enjoying the company of his extended family. He is mourned by his wife of 76 years, Barbara, and their children and spouses, Claire (Glen), Michael, Janice (Jacques), Stuart (Lois), eight grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Michael was predeceased by his daughter Katherine, his parents, John and Sophie, and his siblings, Jim and Mary.

Michael was born in Canora, Saskatchewan on August 22, 1926. He left the farm at the early age of 17 to pursue a long and successful career in marketing. Barbara and Michael married in 1949. They started their lives together in Yorkton, followed by short periods in Winnipeg, and Brandon before returning permanently to Winnipeg in 1958. Never to stay put for too long, Michael owned homes in Brandon, Niakwa and Windsor Park, St. Norbert and Charleswood. Michael also enjoyed many relaxing years at the family cabin at Victoria Beach.

Michael started his sales career with Nutty Club and was with Colgate Palmolive for nearly 20 years before he took a national management role with Corby Distillers, which position continued until he retired at the age of 62.

In his business circles, he was know as Mitch. Mitch loved to talk, entertain, and sell. He was an exceptional promoter. He could not enter a room without engaging all present. He was well respected for his friendly yet, direct sales approach and made many close business friends.

Michael expanded his social network through lifelong associations with the Charleswood United Church, the Rotary Club, and the Khartum Shriners where he was an Honorary Life Member. He had a passion for golf and curling. He was a longtime member of Breezy Bend Country Club and was a member of the Granite Curling Club since 1969. He organized a tour for the Manitoba PGA club pros and supported both the Blue Bombers and Jets as a perennial season ticket holder. Though known to sink a key putt when it mattered, the score was always secondary to the camaraderie.

Michael was fortunate to have a long and healthy retirement with Barbara. The best days were spent when Michael was surrounded by his children and many grandchildren. He loved to talk about the stock market and the latest game - weekly visits were never enough. Dad was always generous and never hesitated to assist a family member. He was proud and supportive of his family.

A service commemorating Michael's life has been held at the Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens. The family is thankful to Reverend Dr. Michael Wilson and Keith Macpherson for making the service a truly wonderful tribute.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 20, 2025