Jeffrey Earl Blake

It is with deep pain and sorrow that we share the news of Jeff Blake's death on December 30, 2022. After a three year, hard-fought battle, he lost his fight to cancer. He will be remembered most for his kindness, sharp wit, and most wonderful smile.

Jeff graduated from The University of Maryland as a chemical engineer and then continued his education at Johns Hopkins University. This led to a 30-year career in the biotechnology industry where he worked for several companies in the mid-Atlantic region. Jeff thoroughly enjoyed his work where he mentored many colleagues and made lasting friends.

Jeff loved the water and was an avid SCUBA diver. We enjoyed many wonderful vacations in beautiful locations in search of great diving spots. He also relished our yearly family vacations at the beaches of the Outer Banks. His ties to his childhood friends were strong and he rarely missed their annual outings. Jeff quickly became a fixture at his wife's "MCI" crowd and their frequent dinner gatherings. Jeff was proud of his sons' accomplishments: Nicholas graduating college and starting a career, and Chris on his way to completing his degree at Jeff's alma mater.

Jeff was born in Washington, DC to Ronald (predeceased) and Elizabeth Blake (Teeple). He is survived by: his wife Maria Marzullo; sons Nicholas and Christopher; mother Elizabeth; sister and her spouse Kathleen Gerjets and Steven Kane; nephews and their spouse/fiance David and Rachael Gerjets, and Daniel Gerjets and Michelle Herman; and uncle William Teeple; as well as many other relatives and friends. He also leaves behind his beloved dog Silas.

Jeff did not want a viewing, funeral or even an obituary (hopefully he will forgive this). A celebration of Jeff's life will be held in the spring. If you would like to make a donation in his memory, he would have liked a gift to Project AWARE or Warrior Canine Connection. Information on the celebration will be updated here or contact Maria at marzullomaria@yahoo.com