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Russell Blake Obituary
Born February 2, 1942 in Pittsfield, MA to parents Russell and Edith Blake, Russ graduated in 1959 from Pittsfield High School and started his long career in the printing industry.
First employed by Ben Franklin Press in Sheffield, MA. Russ later moved on to be foreman of Northeastern Law Press until the closing of the business in the early 90's. He next worked at Marian Fathers from 1993 to 2003 until departing for Florida's sunnier skies and working for his friend Paul at Bordeau Plumbing until his retirement in 2009.
Russ married his wife, Mary Kruszyna on October 27, 1962. They built their life together raising 3 children and followed their love of racing at Lebanon Valley Speedway. At the speedway, Russ was a driver, head of the Board of Directors and later he was fully involved in his two sons' racing careers.
His love of, and commitment to, racing came to a culmination after being inducted into the Lebanon Valley Hall of Fame in 2001 with his family and friends by his side, who worked with him his entire racing career, a moment in his life he was so proud of. With his love of racing, it was only fitting that for 20 years Russ & Mary owned and operated Northeastern Racing Supply, helping numerous racers with not just racing parts, but also with the knowledge he acquired over the years that was always readily available, especially to the young racers hoping to break into the winner's circle.
Russ was predeceased by his wife Mary on October 26, 1998, a day shy of their 36th Anniversary. He leaves his 3 children Michelle Blake, Russ Blake (wife Tracy), and Ron Blake (wife Jennifer), a granddaughter Erin Blake, grandson Christopher Blake, and his sister Linda Duzlak (husband Robert). He also leaves his longtime companion Gloria Whitaker Tanner as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of His Life will be held at a later date, to be announced.
In Lieu of flowers, we ask that you donate to his memory at cancer.org or American Cancer Society P.O. Box 42040, Oklahoma City, OK 73123.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Russell Blake
Sponsored by The Berkshire Eagle.
Patrick Legacy
January 7, 2022
My grandfather Barney Davis worked with Russ long ago. When I was looking for photos and information about my grandfather not too long ago, Russ was quick to jump in and tell me old stories and sent along some photos of his cars. I am grateful that we had a chance to talk, and that he was such a good friend to my grandfather
STEVEN CHAMBERLAIN
February 19, 2021
Russ jr and Ron your dad was one of the good guys. he helped me many times and in many ways through the years. he is missed.
Ken & Tanis
February 16, 2021
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always. Our Sympathy to all of his family. We will miss our talks about racing and his life in Florida.
Peter White Sr.
February 14, 2021
So sad when I heard about Russ passing. A sad day for sure. RIP Russ.
Denny Young Sr.
February 13, 2021
Ron & family, I was saddened to read of your dad's passing. He was a great help to me when I first started racing. Good advice and every thing he told me was right on. My thoughts are with your family at this time.
Jessica
February 13, 2021
so sorry for the loss of Russ he's a great person i loved going to the races when i was a kid meeting him n watching him race he became a family friend in the 80's ..sending hugs to your family Ron and Russ Jr. from Jessica B. of Pittsfield
Jayne & Marc Bellora
February 12, 2021
Ron, Jen & Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Thinking of you and sending lots of love.
Donald Kruszyna
February 12, 2021
My Deepest Condolences to the Blake and Kruszyna Familys
Tom Flynn
February 11, 2021
Ron and Jen, sorry to hear about Russ’s passing. Fondly remembered from our younger days as well with Mary. Hope his life in Florida was pleasant. Our best, Tom and Donna Flynn.
February 11, 2021
We'll love you forever Russ....................................
Neet, Gar, John, Sam and Anna
michael radwich
February 11, 2021
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
TIMOTHY VACHULA
February 11, 2021
My condolences to the whole Blake family.
Ron and Russ, I'm so sorry for your loss. If you need anything please let me know. You all are in my prayers.
Brian Bedell
February 11, 2021
Blake Family:I am so glad to have known Russ over the years spent at Lebanon Valley Speedway.He was simply a great man who I had the upmost respect for.Always a kind word in the pit area when we spoke.He will always be in my memory.Your dedication to the Valley will never be forgotten.Race in peace my friend.
Kevin Kingsley
February 11, 2021
Ron sorry for your loss
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