John Michael Blakley

1940 - 2016

John Michael Blakley (Mike)

passed away September 28, 2016. Mike was born in Indianapolis, Indiana to Earl A. (Tim) Blakley and Jeanne Bugbee Blakley July 2, 1940. He was a graduate of Lawrence Central High School and University of Illinois where he was a member of Delta Upsilon Fraternity. After graduation Mike joined the Air Force where he became a jet fighter pilot. He continued with the Air National Guard until retirement, never giving up his love of flying.

Mike and Barb loved traveling and had been all over the world many times. He especially enjoyed his motorcycle trips throughout the United States, Europe and South America.

Mike was President of Blakley Corporation until his retirement in 2012. He was also President of Indiana State Chamber of Commerce, President of FBI Citizens Academy, Chapter Chairman of Young Presidents Organization and Chapter Chairman of World Presidents Organization. He was a board member of Goodwill Industries of Central Indiana, Conner Prairie, Rose Hulman University and Marsh Supermarkets. He was also a member of American Business Club, The 100 Club, Meridian Hills Country Club and May River Golf Club at Palmetto Bluff, South Carolina and St. Luke's United Methodist Church.

Mike is survived by his wife, Barbara, daughters, Michelle Blakley, Stacia Blakley (Todd Perrine) and the light of his life, his granddaughter, Sawyer Blakley Costello. He is also survived by his brother Earl A. (Tim) Blakley Jr. He is predeceased by his parents and brother Stephen.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in his memory may be made to Goodwill Industries of Central Indiana and Conner Prairie or to the donor's favorite charity.Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 9, 2016 from 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. at Leppert Mortuary, Nora Chapel. Services will be held at St. Luke's United Methodist Church, Monday, October 10, 2016 at 10 a.m.