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Blake Reese Obituary
Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Memorial Park Funeral Home in Memphis, Tenn. A funeral will be at 3 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.
A native of Memphis, Tenn., Blake was born Nov. 19, 1981. He graduated from Germantown High School in Tennessee in 2000 and went on to attend college at the University of Montana and the University of Alaska, where he was a senior studying environmental science.
"An avid outdoorsman, his love for nature began early in life on fishing and hunting trips with his dad and brother," his family recalled. "Later, his devotion to the outdoors was nurtured during countless adventures: skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, ice climbing and kayaking. Though his passion was adventure and challenge, a favorite pastime was simply walking with Cayuse, his black lab of seven years.
"Equal to his love of the outdoors was his passion for creating music, particularly on the guitar and mandolin. Blake played many roles: songwriter, collaborator and bandmate, always integrating his unique personality comfortably with those around him, a trait reflected in each area of his life. A kind-hearted and genuine friend, Blake always gave back to his community and those in need, particularly through working with special needs individuals and protecting the environment.
"Blake was a loving and compassionate son, grandson, brother and friend."
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert "Ronnie" Reese; and grandfathers, Wyatt Lewis and Robert Reese.
He is survived by his mother and stepfather, Nancy (Lewis) and Jesse Thompson of Cordova, Tenn.; brother, Justin Lewis Reese of San Francisco; sister, Callie Alexandra Reese of Collierville, Tenn.; and grandmothers, Irene Langston Lewis of Germantown, Tenn., and Marjorie Hardiman Reese of Huntsville, Ala. Blake also leaves behind his aunt, Marianne Lewis Johnston; aunt and uncle, Wanda (Reese) and Frank Carlen; and cousins, Devin Carlen, Heather Carlen Johnson and Angela Johnston Segars.
The family requests that memorials be sent to one of the charities with which Blake was actively involved (or a local equivalent): HOPE Community Resources (Anchorage) and the Anchorage School District - ACT, both of which assist individuals with special needs or disabilities; the Alaska Center for the Environment; or Play-It-Again Memphis, a nonprofit program providing instruments to school children who cannot afford their own.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Blake Reese
Sponsored by Mom, Jesse & Justin - we love you and will miss you forever.
Brad Grossweiler
April 27, 2020
I remember playing music with Blake in the Spring of 2008 and he was a great song writer and singer and could create music on the spot as we played! I still wave his prayer flags at my lodge here in McCarthy to remember him forever more and know that he is playing music with the Angels in heaven now for ever more!
Napoleon Gollwitzer
May 15, 2013
I just wanted to thank you a lot more for your incredible website you have actually established right here.
Anthony Troxel
May 10, 2010
Blake, you will never beforgotten...
Rusty Sedberry
August 7, 2008
i have the fondest memories of blake when we were in sixth grade playing pee-wee football, together with jeremy umphrees. We would say we had concrete heads and go and attack the defense. Always remembered and never forgotten. Love you Blake.
salmon fishing with the Reese-man
Josh Doane
May 27, 2008
An open letter to Blake Reese and Family,
Your funeral was the saddest, most detrimental thing I've ever witnessed. Justin gave, with courage, an uplifting, heart-felt, accurate portrait of words of your life to a huge crowd of your friends and relatives. (for those who weren't there, the message was that Blake was the most kind and giving person we all knew and the phrase "to no end" was rightfully repeated.) You had people fly in from all over the world, or at least as far as Maui, to bid you farewell and to comfort your family. Simmons got up on the podium in front of everyone and told the story of the three of us in Glacier Park, the first time we all went there together, and how you taught him how to catch wild West-slope cutthroat in that mosquito-infested last camp site before the trip was over. It was rather moving, as well.
I still have the things that we were always working on, most notably, the last poem you sent me, which has yet to be heard by anyone, much less recorded as one of your songs. I know I could never do it any justice myself, but I am going to try with all my heart to turn it into something we can all be proud of. I'll probably consult Simmons help on it and we'll make sure it finds it's way back to Justin.
These days are so dark and i think about you everyday. You, personally, helped me out of two very desperate times in my own life. When I had exhausted all other possible resources in my life, you were still there for me any time of day from any distance away. I wish I could've returned the favor, but we both know I was never as strong as you.
The world is an ugly and disgusting place without you. Now, all the rest of us can do is try to be more like the best man I ever knew. Blake Hardiman Reese. I love you.
Kevin Brinkman
May 19, 2008
To Blake's family,
Your son and brother has touched so many lives through so many different ways and I'm so sorry for yours and our loss. We recently celebrated the life and music of Blake at the recent Miller Creek show including an entire set of Blakes original songs. It was an amazing night filled with great music, great stories, and great people all there to show their support for Blake. I may have only known Blake for a few years but his influence on me will last a lifetime. It was awesome to meet Justin this weekend as well and we hope to see you in Missoula again soon!
Rob Rains
May 14, 2008
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. It is evident that Blake touched so many lives and was filled with a caring soul and a gentle heart by reading the entries here. I hope you will find comfort in knowing that he is so loved and so many cared for him as well as you and your family. I will be thinking good thoughts for you.
Chere Bradshaw
May 12, 2008
Nancy, Justin & family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I remember how sweet Blake was when he was in my Sunday School class at Covenant. From these entries, it sounds like he became a wonderful man. I will keep you in my prayers.
Amber Prouty
May 11, 2008
Blake,
I hope that you know that I love
you and I hope that you never
doubted that.
For you, I would have done a anything 1,000 times over.
I took Cayuse for hikes while I was
in Alaska. He was so attentive to me,
sticking close to my side. He always did love me best.
I love you and I will try
to manifest your peace
in my life.
Ryan Murdock
May 10, 2008
Blake's Work throughout his life will live on. He's done more to help our world that most of us ever dream of. I worked with him at Alaska Center For the Environment and it's sad to see him go but I know that he left this world better than he found it.
Jeanette Davis
May 9, 2008
I found comfort in this poem after I lost my grandson. Remember that only the good die young.
Yesterdays' Sunshine
by Jeanette Davis
Yesterday the sun's rays was like
a diamond with a thousand facets
that surrounded my world
with a rainbow glow.
when I met you within this space of
beauty
your smile was warm,
your concern was real and
your love was pure
Your soul gazed out of the windows of your body with
a warmth that
equaled the sun's
and so my thoughts of love trailed
behind you
as you ambled on your way
Today a shroud of sadness
traps me in a grey and dreary void
I hopefully pray and pensively wait
until my thoughts of love return
to fill me with warm memories
of you and
yesterday's sunshine.
My prayers are with you
Aubrie Lyons
May 9, 2008
A gentle soul and energizing spirit, Blake will be missed greatly and thought of fondly. What a wonderful friend to so many. My prayers are with his family and friends.
Adam Ahonen
May 8, 2008
We are having a "Celebration of Life" for Blake on Sunday 5/11/08 from 2pm-6pm @ Alpenglow Ski Area in Eagle River, Alaska. This will include a slide show, shared memories, music and food. Anyone is welcome to this informal celebration in honor of Blake. Alpenglow Ski Area is accessed by Arctic Valley Road off of the Glenn Highway. Follow the road for 7 miles, it turns into gravel. Parking will be at the end on the right The building is Handicap accessible. If you have any questions feel free to contact Adam, Vern or Caleb at (907) 349-1313.
GARY CASTELLI
May 8, 2008
NANCY SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT THE LOSS OF YOUR SON BLAKE...... WOW AFTER I READ HOW MUCH HE DID FOR THIS WORLD AND OTHER PEOPLE..... I KNOW HE WAS A GREAT SON!!!!! NANCY YOU AND YOUR FAMILY WILL BE IN MY PRAYER.
Joan Tovsen
May 8, 2008
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of one model UAA student who made such a harmonious difference in scale. My condolences to family and friends. Though I did not know him, he truly sounds like the type student we need more of. But there is a greater blue print designed by a Master Air Controller. On the scheduled flight itinerary He will return Blake and restore him to replay once more in the future. That will be a great reunion.
J. T.
UAA/UAF
Jamie Esler
May 8, 2008
Knowing
Blake for the past few years between Missoula and Alaska has been a
blessing all in itself. The world would be a more united and peaceful
place if there were more individuals with the soul and spirit of Blake.
When I think about Blake in my mind I see him snowshoeing just ahead of me on the way to the top of Stewart Peak in the Rattlesnake Wilderness.
Then my mind flashes to Blake standing in front of the mighty Kennicott
Glacier, mandolin in hand, singing the purest of harmonies with the
wind, the sky, and the unknown. Lastly, my mind flashes Blake's smiling
face, shirtless, soaking up the sun's rays while working in the garden
at the lodge I manage in McCarthy AK. The simplicity of that afternoon
will forever bring a smile to my face....
All of these images of Blake wil stay with me forever. I hope and pray
that everyone who knows Blake is left with similiar impressions.
I bid thee farewell my friend, and I miss you dearly.
Your life flows on in endless song.
Diane Ratliff
May 8, 2008
Nancy and Family: I was so sorry to hear of your loss of your Son. He was Loved by many. My prayers are with you and your Family.
Ruth Strong
May 8, 2008
You are in my prayers. God will comfort you during this time of need.
Judy Chapman
May 7, 2008
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Looking through this book one can tell what a special person Blake was and and how he will live on in many peoples' memories. Take care.
Terri Armstrong
May 7, 2008
My deepest condolences to Justin, Alex, Becky and the family.....I met Blake and Justin when they were much younger, in their teens. I can see that Blake grew up to be a very caring and strong young man. I pray for this family for strength and grace to endure these times of loss. Blessings to all of you,
Rev. Terri Armstrong
Tupelo MS
kathy brents
May 7, 2008
Nancy, We pray for you and all of Blake's family and friends, and the many people touched by his life to find comfort and strength.
Kathy, Bill, Kristy Brents and
Kate Wein(Mother)
Covenant UMC, Cordova, TN
Paul Vanasek
May 7, 2008
My thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathy go out to the Reese family. It sounds like Blake was a wonderful person. I am sorry for your loss.
Liz D'Onofrio
May 7, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
May 6, 2008
My daughter knew Blake through school and the community. She always spoke very highly of Blake and told of the joy people felt when they were in his presents. He will be greatly misses.
music lover
May 6, 2008
I knew Blake through his music aswell as his involvement with special needs students. He brought such joy to the students with his music. We all looked forward in seeing him each week. Blake was the highlight of our week. He will be greatly missed and always remembered. My thoughts and prays.
Derick
May 6, 2008
I only knew Blake for a short time, but it was long enough to know that he was a warm person who deeply cared about the world and people around him. Such compassion will be sorely missed.
Marcella Dent
May 6, 2008
I was in Blake's Environmental Ethics class too. I didn't know Blake well but he certainly always had something interesting and thoughtful to add to discussion. My heart goes to his family and friends.
Camelia Silva
May 6, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Aaron Knudsen
May 6, 2008
Even though I did not know Blake, I see all the wonderful things people have to say about him and the positive influence he had on people will always be felt. I pray that God will be there to comfort you all and I have learned from several deaths of close friends that its better to celebrate the life they lived and the wonderful things each accomplished and did for others then dwell in the loss. God bless you and your family and I will keep you all in my prayers.
Galletana Woodson
May 6, 2008
I attend UAA and found out about Blake Reese when I opened an e-mail sent out by the school. I did not know Blake Reese, but I believe that any loss must be repsected when you have knowledge of that loss. May Blake rest in peace and may his family stay strong. My prayers go out to the Reese family and friends.
Sarah Arts
May 6, 2008
May you rest in Peace Blake. My thoughts and prayers are with your family, friends, and roommates. God Bless.
Misty Hughey
May 6, 2008
I'm sorry to hear about Blake's passing. I didn't know him, but my prayers go out to your family during this very difficult time. If I had met him we probably could have swapped stories about Memphis for hours. *hugs*
Brad Grossweiler
May 6, 2008
Hi Nancy, I never met you before but just wanted you to know how much Blake is missed and loved by all his friends here in McCarthy , Alaska. My name is Brad Grossweiler and owner of a small lodge here in this beautifull place , and was so fortunate to have Blake and his friends and brother out here last summer! He loved it out here and was going to come out this summer after school was out to help out for a few weeks play music and hike,climb and just enjoy all the outdoors have to offer here. We were really looking forward to his visit. I was just in Anchorage a few weeks ago and stayed at his place and played 2 new songs with him he just wrote and we recorded it on his computer. He is going to be missed so so much and I feel I lost one of my best friends in life and I only know Blake for less than a year, but he was the type of guy that once you met him he left a impression on you that you never forgot. For his love of the outdoors and his talent to write music and play and sing was one from the heart and soul, where his unique, thoughtfull, caring personalities he possessed showed to everyone he met and ever cared for. Blake , you will never be forgotten and may you rest in Peace knowing that you touched so many people in their lives and will never forget you buddy! God Bless you and your family for ever and ever more!!!!!!!!!!!!
Carla Modrell
May 6, 2008
I did not know Blake; however, I am really sorry for your loss. May God bless you and your family through this sad time.
Sheila Strachan
May 6, 2008
With sympathy for your loss and wishes for peace and love for Blake,
David Alexander
May 6, 2008
I appreciated Blake's whimsical sense of humor and competent work in class. He was a delightful person.
Amy Reidell
May 6, 2008
I just recently met Blake. As secretary in the Biology Department, I spoke with him when he changed his major. We had a wonderful conversation regarding his plans for the future working in Natural Resources. He was truly excited regarding his future and it saddens me to hear this news. My heart and prayers are with his family and friends.
Tracey Rose
May 6, 2008
With sympathy for your loss and wishes for peace and love for Blake,
Greg Langsdale
May 6, 2008
Blake was a great teammate on the Germantown Lacrosse team in high school. I am stunned and deeply saddened to hear of his passing. From reading this guestbook it is apparent that Blake positively influenced the lives of so many people. Justin, my thoughts and most sincere sympathy are with you, your family, and all of Blake’s friends.
Bryce Davis
May 6, 2008
Blake you will be missed my friend. You touched the lives of many people and you will not be forgotten. God Bless...
Chavah Kurtz
May 5, 2008
I was in Blake's Environmental Ethics class and have just found out about what happened. To his parents, I'm sorry to hear about your loss and am saddened to hear that Blake has passed. From what I saw in class he was a stand up guy and really nice. I wish I could have gotten to know him better.
Cheridah Wilson
May 5, 2008
May his soul rest in peace and God bless his family and friends.
Jo-Ann Mapson
May 5, 2008
Rest in peace.
Phillip Caton
May 5, 2008
Even though I did not know Blake personally, I felt the loss of your son as he was one of UAA's. As an alumni, I'd like to take this moment to let you know that earth has no sorrow that heaven can't heal. Blake will be missed throughout the campus of the University of Alaska Anchorage. My prayers are with you and your family.
Jamie Bruza
May 5, 2008
It breaks my heart to lose someone so young, But you did not go alone, for a part of me went with you on the day God called you home. I did not know him, A fellow student to me, He was so young.A giving soul with lots love and peace that surounded him and everyone he came in contact with. I will miss you! I will remember peace for you. JB
Kim Sperman
May 5, 2008
It's always difficult losing a classmate. Blake had a way of making people look at issues in completely new ways. The world is a much duller place with his loss.
Kelcie Ralph
May 5, 2008
Blake inspired me to care for and view the environment in new ways. May his spirit and energy live on.
Janna Brickley Maillelle
May 5, 2008
My son, John, attends U.A.A. and I hurt with you. In this time may the comforter come near and you have peace . Truly,
Hilary McDaniel Aleman
May 5, 2008
My thoughts and prayers go out to each of you. I will always remember Blake’s sweet face and all the wonderful memories he has given me. Growing up with Blake brings a smile to my face. He showed so much love to each of us during his life. He will be missed dearly.
Scott & Angela Elmore
May 5, 2008
Blake was a good friend to us, and he will be dearly missed. I feel fortunate to have played music with him, and will always remember the times we shared. Our deepest sympathies to all of Blake’s family and friends.
Jennie Latta
May 5, 2008
I only met Blake once, but know how you will miss him. Please know that we are thinking of you. We enjoyed our time in Montana so very much. Jennie, Ken, David, Evelyn and Judy Latta
Ernie & Pam Christensen
May 5, 2008
Nancy & Jesse - Know that you are constantly in our thoughts and prayers. We cannot even imagine what you are going thru at this time, but know that our Heavenly Father loves you and He loves Blake.
The Ashton Family
May 5, 2008
Our deepest sympathies goes out to you, knowing that there is nothing more difficult than losing a child. We hope that the love and support of your friends and family will help carry you through your grief.
Ann Rivera
May 5, 2008
Nancy, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Blake. I know that words can not ease your pain, but please know that you and your family are in my prayers. May God's everlasting mercy comfort you during this painful time.
Marvilla Davis
May 4, 2008
We only met once at your Mom and Jesse's place in Montana, but we had an interesting and memorable conversation about a love that we had in common , music. There is now an empty place once filled with your music, passion for enjoying and preserving our planet, your kindness and the love for your family, friends and Cayuse. For those of us who knew you, we will have our memories to fill that empty spot.
Nancy, my heart goes out to you, knowing that there is nothing harder than losing a child. Our daughter Wendy would have been 44 today. Blake was truly a son to be proud of who brought much joy and caring into the lives of so many. I hope that you know that the love and support of your many friends and family will help you through this very difficult time.
Susan, Robbie, Jimmy and Michael Inman
May 4, 2008
Nancy, We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We haven't seen Blake in years (since our baseball days), but it sounds like he was such a wonderful young man. You and your family should be very proud of the positive impact he had on so many people. We will keep you and your family in our prayers.
Raymond Anthony
May 4, 2008
Blake's Environmental Ethics classmates and I will miss him deeply. Not only was he well liked by his peers, Blake was the kind of student that professors dream of: attentive, eager to learn ?and always ready with an anecdote or story to share with the class that helped to make the ?point clearer and personally relevant, and which would invite others into the conversation. ?Blake communicated well and when he spoke, his classmates tuned in attentively. His easy-?going, kind and generous spirit was readily felt. He always left his classmates feeling better ?about themselves. Blake and some of his classmates organized a successful "Sustainability and You" Fair in March. I remember talking to him on the day of the event and he said how ?important it was for him to be part of that endeavor and being around others who cared ?about the environment. He was certainly wearing a big smile that day.??
During office visits, Blake expressed his joy for the classroom discussions and his ?classmates, and his deep concern for the environment. He was "happy to know that others in ?the class are taking this [the Environment] seriously." He also spoke fondly of his adventures ?outdoors, especially skiing, and his love of music, and even considered the idea of singing for ?the class.?
Dr. Anthony, Environmental Ethics Instructor, Department of Philosophy, UAA
Blake and Cayuse with family in Montana Sept 2006
May 4, 2008
Blake and friends ice climbing in AK
May 4, 2008
Blake vacationing with family March 08
May 4, 2008
Blake fly fishing in Polebridge Montana Aug 2006
May 4, 2008
What a great guy to accompany Mom and friends to Siyeh Pass in Glacier NP, Aug 2005
May 4, 2008
Blake and brother,Justin, at trappers cabin in AK Aug 07
May 4, 2008
jeff lewis
May 3, 2008
you influenced me on a lot of the things i do today...i hope your in a better place.
Sharon Hale-Bell
May 3, 2008
Nancy, Teresa sent me notice of your loss. I am so sorry. I cannot even begin to imagine your sorrow. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. May you find some comfort from all those who love you and your family. What joy you must have known being the mother of such a remarkable young man. Indeed you were richly blessed.
Marty Thomas
May 3, 2008
My heart goes out to your mother, Nancy, a friend of mine since sixth grade. May God bless and comfort her at this time.
Patrick Munson
May 3, 2008
People like you are not easy to find, Blake. We will all miss you more than you will ever know.
Patrick
Kari Campbell
May 3, 2008
Your love of animals and music has left a permanent mark on my heart. The passion with which you lived will live on in all of us. Thank you for sharing Cayuse and your music with us. I'll miss you!
Blake and Cayuse - Dog Jog 2006 / Anchorage
May 3, 2008
Peg Banks
May 3, 2008
I'll never forget his bright spirit and tender soul.
Staff of Memorial Park Funeral Home & Cemeteries & Cemeteries
May 2, 2008
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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