Gary Blake, 79, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2026, at his home in Sedalia, Missouri.

Gary was born on November 3, 1946, in Minnesota to Dorothy Wreath and Lynn Drum. He was the brother of Allen Drum and Glenn Blake. At age seven, Gary moved with his family to Fort Collins, Colorado. At 14, he moved with his mother and stepfather, Clyde Blake, to Humansville, Missouri, where he was adopted by his stepfather. Shortly afterward, Gary went to live with his great-aunt, Stella Pryor, and worked on the family cherry farm. It was during this time that he developed his love of gardening and purchased his first motorcycle, beginning a lifelong appreciation for the open road.

On April 6, 1965, Gary joined the United States Air Force, beginning a 26-year military career as a firefighter. His service took him to Andrews Air Force Base in Washington, D.C., in 1965 with the 315th Air Division; Creech Air Force Base in Indian Springs, Nevada, in 1968; Nellis Air Force Base in 1969; and Travis Air Force Base in San Francisco in 1971. While at Travis, he was involved in the early development of the B-2 bomber and worked in special operations. Gary was also a Vietnam veteran. He completed his military career at Whiteman Air Force Base.

While Gary was stationed in the Philippines he met Letty Peralta whome he had a daughter name Jenny Weiland. After 11 years of friendship, Gary married Sandra Blake, on October 1, 1991. Together, they built a life centered around family, friendships, and the many hobbies Gary enjoyed.

Gary was a loving stepfather to Sherri Combs, Stacy Moore, Susie Grinstead, and Mike Grinstead. He was a proud "Papa" to nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He is survived by his brother, Glenn Blake; his protective mini Pomeranian, Zoe; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Gary enjoyed the simpler things in life. He loved fishing, gardening, cooking, and sharing good times with family and friends. He was a member of American Legion Post #642, the Firefighters Breakfast group, VFW Post #2591, and was a longtime poker player.

Gary will be remembered for the life he built, the people he loved, his years of service, and the many memories he created along the way. His family, military service, friendships, and enjoyment of life's simple pleasures will remain a lasting part of the lives of those who knew him. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will live on through his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.

Rest easy, Gary. We will miss you.

A celebration of life gathering of family and friends will be held from 10:00 a.m to 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at Rea Funeral Chapel, Sedalia, MO.

The burial will follow at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery, Higginsville, MO, at 1:00 p.m.

Honorary bearers will be Kathy Reed and Jackie Baker.

Memorial contributions may be made to The American Legion Post #642, in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.

Arrangements are under the direction of Rea Funeral Chapel.