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Mr. Richard “Neal” Blake Sr., 82, a resident of Belington departed this life late Saturday night at Mon Health Medical Center, Morgantown, West Virginia. Death was following a period of declining health.
He was born Jan. 5, 1944, at Junior, West Virginia, a son of the late Austin Clark Blake and Cora Amelia Poling Blake. On June 25, 1966, he was united in marriage to Judith Lynn Rowan, who preceded him in death on Jan. 12, 2022.
Those surviving to cherish his memory are three sons, Rick Blake and wife, Kelly, of Junior, Steven Blake and wife, Kelly, also of Junior, and Matthew Blake of Belington; one brother, Gary Blake of Junior; sister-in-law. Deborah Moyer and husband. Jerry. of Elkins; sister-in-law, Teresa Harlan of Elkins; one brother-in-law, David Rowan of Coalton. Also surviving are seven grandchildren, Hunter and Lindsay Blake, Joshua, Jessica, Haley, Baylee and Ivy Blake; five great-grandchildren, Kaison and Asher Blake, Ryker Streets, Jensen and Lainey Harris.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by one brother Austin Blake Jr.; three sisters, Lois Bond, Opal Shomo, and Betty Blake; brother-in-law, Richard Harlan; and sister-in-law; Debra Rowan.
Neal attended the schools of Barbour County graduating from Belington High School in the class of 1962 with high honors. He was a former member of the Army National Guard. He worked at Kane & Keyser and Valley Supply for 40 years before retiring. He was a very knowledgeable person about many topics.
Neal was an avid outdoorsman. He found great joy in the simple rhythms of nature. Whether he was tending to his garden, caring for the chickens and rabbits, he was doing what he enjoyed. He enjoyed fishing with his sons and grandkids. Most of all he enjoyed hunting and being in the woods. He spent many hours building treestands and would sit in the woods to enjoy nature. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
Per Richard's request, cremation will be honored. A graveside service will be held at a later date.
The Talbott Funeral in Belington is in charge of the arrangements for Mr. Richard “Neal” Blake Sr.