Roger Michael "Iron Mike" Blake, 70, Altoona, passed away Saturday at home surrounded by his family after a well-fought brief battle with cancer.
He was born in Altoona, the eldest son of the late J. Roger and Dorothy (Rodkey) Blake.
Surviving are his wife, Linda (Grassmyer); a daughter, Marsha Turchetta and husband, Greg, of Altoona; two grandchildren: Morgan Lynn and Gregory Turchetta; two brothers: Jeffrey J. and wife, Christina, of Altoona and Dennis R. and Bonnie in Texas; and a nephew and niece: Adam and Megan Blake.
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Mike was a graduate of Altoona High School and was a veteran of the U.S. Navy, serving as a heavy equipment operator in the Seabees. After his tour in the Navy, he returned to the Altoona area and worked in the trucking and transportation industry as a successful owner/operator of Blake Trucking. His business took him countless times across the United States.
In 1989, Mike founded, expanded and successfully operated, along with his family, Truck Trailer Parts in Duncansville, which serviced trucking industry accounts across Pennsylvania and Maryland. TTP will continue to operate as a family-owned business.
He attended St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church and was an usher for many years. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, Jaffa Shrine Motor Corps and many civic groups. Along with his wife, Linda, he was known for rescuing and providing a home for abused dogs over the course of his lifetime.
Mike enjoyed relaxing and spending time with his family and friends at the family's cottage on Deep Creek Lake in western Maryland for many years. He enjoyed the tranquility that the cottage offered, the atmosphere of a fine cigar and the company of an entire neighborhood's friendship and laughter. In Altoona, his Thursday night poker club was always his night to shine.
Friends will be received from 5 to 6:45 p.m. Thursday, April 26, 2012, at The Stevens Mortuary Inc., 1421 Eighth Ave., Altoona, where a memorial service will be held at 7 p.m. by Pastor Jeff Hite.
In lieu of flowers, Mike and his family suggest that memorial contributions be made to the Central Pennsylvania Humane Society, 1837 E. Pleasant Valley Blvd., Altoona, PA 16602.
