JOHN BLAKE DONOHOE

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JOHN BLAKE DONOHOE The death of John Blake Donohoe, beloved husband of Ellen, occurred suddenly at The Pas, MB on Wednesday, June 26, 2002. John Blake Donohoe was born June 27, 1927 in Petersfield, MB, the youngest son of John and Racy Donohoe. He attended Petersfield School and during his after-school hours, he enjoyed playing hockey with his brother Jim and helping his father with the family dairy farm. On May 29, 1946, he partnered with his brothers, Denis and Jim, and established the Donohoe Dairy Farm in Petersfield. In 1948, he married Ellen Philpott and they were blessed with five sons, Garry, Keith, John, Mark and Matt. During his years in Petersfield, Blake was actively involved with the community. He was a 4-H Leader of the Petersfield 4-H Club for over 15 years. He also served as Director of the St. Andrew Agricultural Society and President of the Petersfield Curling Club. In 1970, Blake and Ellen moved their family to Brandon, MB which marked the beginning of Donfield Farms. Donfield expanded to The Pas, MB in 1976, with sons, Keith and John operating that dairy. Donfield Farms became the pride and joy of Blake. Up until his death, Blake could still be seen driving around in his golf cart, keeping himself involved with day-to-day operations of the farm. Over the years, Blake had been heavily involved in several organizations that benefited from his commitment, enthusiasm and diligence. He served as Executive Director of the Brandon Milk Producers Organization and Director of the Milk Producers Marketing Board in the late 1970s. Blake was elected Director of the Manitoba Milk Board and Director of the Manitoba Dairy Association. He also served as President of the Manitoba Holstein Association and, in 1982, Blake was elected National Holstein Director for a five year term. Blake had visited many smaller communities in Manitoba over the years, judging Holsteins, Jerseys, goats and even sheep at local fairs. Blake had received many awards for his contribution and dedication to the dairy industry. One of Blakes greatest honours was receiving the Master Breeder Award, Holstein Canadas highest award. Blake enjoyed spending time at his sons farms in The Pas, Steinbach and Basswood, MB and visiting friends and family in Petersfield. He spent time in his large garden and could spend hours cutting grass. He also loved his hand at cards, passing down to his grandchildren the tricks of cheating and rule changing in the middle of the game. Blake will be sadly missed by Ellen, his loving wife of 54 years; sons, Garry (Garda), Keith (Margaret), John (Sandra), Mark (Mary-Ida) and Matthew (Heidi) grandchildren, Jamie, Gari-Ellen (Ramon), Tara-Lyn and Kate-Lee; Gwen, Amanda and Neil; John Jr., Travis and Kyle; Hadyn, Holly and Anna; Austin, Laura, Alanna and Lynnell; and great-granddaughter Molly. He is also survived by his brothers, Denis (Dorothy), Jim (Elsie) and sister Maureen. Blake was predeceased by his parents, John and Racy; and a brother-in-law Charlie Pruden. The Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Augustines Roman Catholic Church on Tuesday, July 2 at 10:30 a.m. Celebrant was Fr. Leo Fernandes. Active pallbearers were Tom Donohoe, Kenny Pruden, Desmond Donohoe, John J. Donohoe, James Donohoe and Dennis McMunn. Honorary pallbearers were Don Hargreaves, Hugh Jameson, Keith Campbell, Allen McRae, Flormon Merckx and Jay Martinook. Interment was in the Rosewood Memorial Gardens. Flowers are gratefully declined. Donations in memory of Blake may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, Ste. 117 - 383 Provencher Blvd., Winnipeg, MB R2H 0G9. Arrangements were with Memories Chapel & Pre-Planning Centre, 727-0330.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 06, 2002