S. Prestley Blake

What a wonderful man, what a wonderful life, a large part of Springfield's life. He was so appreciative of the Colonial look for Friendly's, my father, the architect John C. Parker's main patron, a frequent visitor to consult with dad at our house to design another cupola to adorn yet another new Friendly's. Whenever I see a cupula I know it was a Friendly's, and designed by dad. He and his brother and friendly's are and will be greatly missed by the Parker family (still local).
In...

I had the honor of meeting and talking to Mr. Blake in previous years at different events and always admired him greatly. A true gentleman and innovator. Robert Louis Stevenson summed up Mr. Blake’s long life best:
The man is a success who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much; who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of children; who has filled his niche and accomplished his task; who leaves the world better than he found it, whether by an improved poppy, a...

In 1935, my grand aunt Anna Courtney Cummings and husband Charles Cummings rented out one their two garages to Pres and Curtiss to start their ice cream business at 34 Grant Street Springfield. Within 6 months the business needed more room and they relocated to their first official store.

Sorry to see Mister BLAKE has passed away, but he had a good life. Just think of all the people he made happy with his ice cream, all the young kids like i was that couldn't" wait to have a Sunday with friendly ice cream the best ice cream there ever was. I hope he was very proud of what he created. R I P MR BLAKE

Knew the Blake brothers as I worked at the Berkshire Ave. store and the original store at Pine Point as a part-timer. They were my customers at the Safe Deposit Bk in Spfld. A great team and personable/thoughtful men. RIP

Mrs. Blake, I have fond memories of playing my violin for you and Mr. Blake at Chez Josef and at Springfield Library Banquets. I was very sorry to learn the sad news, and my sincere condolences go out to you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.

God Bless him. He did great things on this earth while he was here. May he rest in peace.

1967 - went to Minnechaug High School in Wilbraham - started in
February washing meat tins in the dishwasher at the Friendly's main plant in Wilbraham. I remember the Blake's brothers would walk thru
the plant often to talk with us.
Then started working in a Friendly store on Berkshire Ave., Spfld.
.
YES Both brothers were very nice to talk with - I must admit Friendly's
ice cream Doesn't taste the same today, as it did back in the '60's-'70's.
.
Dave...

I worked for Friendly's when I was a young mother and I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Blake at that time. Working for one of his restaurants was one of the best experiences that I could have had. My sympathy is extended to the Blake family and I know he will continue watching over all of you. RIP Mr. Blake and enjoy being with the other members of your family that were waiting for you at the Gate of Heaven. Prayers - - - -