Keith "Tad" Blake

Mr. Keith "Tad" Blake died unexpectedly in St. Augustine on June 17, 2018 at the age of 63.

He is survived by his daughters, Leila Blake, of Jacksonville, Kara Blake of Haverhill, Massachusetts, and sister Robin Blake Aiello, of Cleveland, Tennessee. He was preceded in death by father, Daniel Henry Blake, and mother, Marilyn (Moss) Blake.

Keith was born in Manhattan, New York. He grew up in Huntington on Long Island and served in the U.S. Army after high school. He later moved to New York City, living in the East Village and in Brooklyn in the 1970s and '80s, where he forged life-long friendships and rooted himself in the Rock and Roll music scene. He was married to Laurie (Shnapier) Blake of Queens, New York, in 1984, then moved to Cape Cod Massachusetts, where they raised their two daughters. In 2002, Keith moved to St Augustine to be closer to family, including his mother, sister and nieces. Always an avid dog lover, he enjoyed the company of his precious dog, Skittles, in the years he lived in St. Augustine.

Everyone who knew Keith was mesmerized by his musical talents, and intoxicated by his love for music and the arts. At a young age, his musical talents were fostered at Grace Church in the East Village of New York City, where he sang soprano in the church choir. Later, he became a masterfully skilled guitarist and composer, also playing bass, drums, keyboards amongst other woodwinds, percussion, and string instruments. In the early days of Rock and Roll, he played at many world-famous clubs and venues, including the historic CBGB nightclub in NYC. He engaged with talented musicians throughout his life, often found playing at local venues and music festivals, and teaching private guitar lessons to a number of eager musicians of all ages. He will be fondly remembered by all he encountered as a remarkable guitarist, composer and musician.

Condolences can be sent to www.stjohnsfamilyfuneralhome.com In lieu of flowers, please consider sending donations to one of the following charities in Keith's name:

VHI Save the Music

www.vhisavethemusic.org

NAMI Florida

namiflorida.org/donate.php

The family would like to thank Veterans Administration Services for the support and care provided to Keith.

St. Johns Family Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.