John A. Blake

John A. Blake, “Papa John” “Farmer John” “Mayor of Andy’s”, 74, of Crystal Lake, passed away peacefully, with his family by his side, in Barrington, Thursday March 15, 2018. He was born in London, England; a true and proud Englishman. He was a Vietnam Veteran and served his new country, America, proudly.

His loving daughter, Cassandra; fishing/travel buddy, son-in-law, Bernie; proud son, Jonathon, and caring daughter-in-law, Kelly, took excellent care of him until his far too quick passing; his grandchildren, Blake, Will, and Lucy are forever in his heart; and his caring sister, Tessa, from Spain, was in contact with him until his passing.

Our entire family remembers him as a great fisherman, lover of cars, sweet and generous man, with his time and efforts helping so many friends and family members across Illinois and Wisconsin. He had 270,000 miles on his Hyundai, driving from Naples, Illinois to Door County, Wisconsin, visiting his cherished friends. Many have reached out to offer their love of our father, and we are grateful. We cannot express our love and gratitude for all he has continually done for our family.

He worked at Red Barn Market, and was a staple in the local summer Farmers Market. He frequented Andy’s Diner, and made many friends there. He also worked at Solo Cup as an engineer, and was a UPS driver in Northbrook. Mostly, he was a good friend, and the best handyman we know.

Love goes out to our extended Florida family-who will forever remember Papa John as their dad and grandpa. His times on Lauderdale Pier was some of the BEST times of his life. “You never knew what you would pull out of that Ocean.”

Papa proudly filled the role of Dad, Grandpa, Brother, or Dear Friend to so many.  Whether related by blood or not, he considered them all family and Papa loved them all just the same.

He was preceded in death by his parents Jack and Cecily Blake.

Friends are welcome to visit with John’s family on Wednesday, March 21 from 4-8pm with a memorial service beginning at 7 p.m. at Davenport Family Funeral Home and Crematory, 419 E Terra Cotta Ave, Crystal Lake, IL 60014. Burial will be held Thursday, March 22, at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood.

Papa John’s grandson, Blake, will be participating in the St. Baldrick’s Shave, March 23 in honor of his grandpa. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you help him achieve his goal to fight childhood cancers. https://www.stbaldricks.org/participants/mypage/968318/2018