John L. Blake, 79, of Woodburn, died Friday, May 3, 2024. He was born on August 7, 1944 in Mishawaka, the son of (the late) Hal and Florence (Schultheis) Blake. After high school, John earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan. He worked at various companies, in between his gigs as a professional musician, perhaps most notably as the head bass player for Tommy James & the Shondells. John enjoyed and was proficient at billiards, having won several tournaments and awards. He was also a talented amateur artist, but his passion was in making music. John enjoyed the time he spent with family & friends, and he was always willing to lend a helping hand whenever needed.

John is survived by his wife, Kathryn Blake; his daughter, Cindy (John) Goble of Peru; sons, Robert (Veronica) Blake of Kendallville and Richard (Sybil) Blake of Garrett. John is also survived by his stepdaughters, Heather (Steve) Shankle and Kathleen (Cesar Ruiz) Salazar, and stepsons, Robert (Tennielle) Salazar and Michael (Amanda) Salazar, all of Fort Wayne; 28 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

There are no services currently scheduled. Arrangements were made through Divine Mercy Funeral Home, 3500 Lake Ave. The family's preferred memorial is the American Cancer Society, online at donate.cancer.org or by mail to 111 E Ludwig Rd, Suite 105, Fort Wayne, IN 46825.