Stephen Paul Blake

Stephen Paul Blake passed away on August 7, 2025, at the age of 83 in Bemidji, MN. Born on February 7, 1942, Steve pursued a rewarding career in academia after earning his BA from Dartmouth College, spending 2 years in the Peace Core in India and subsequently earning PhD in Indian History from the University of Chicago. He was a long time history professor at St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN, where he was revered by students and colleagues alike. Steve was also a prolific author, having written five books focusing on the early modern city-states of the Islamic world.

Steve was a devoted husband to his wife, Meg, and a loving father to his children, Rachel, Andrew, Edward, Paul (Kelsey), and John. He was also a cherished grandfather to Margot, and Oliver. His family and friends remember him as a passionate educator and a warm hearted friend who enjoyed opera, traveling, reading, and watching Minnesota sports teams. He cherished his summer community at his cabin on Star Island and also loved hosting friends and family in Key West during the winter.

A memorial service will be held in his honor on Friday, August 15th, at 11 am at Christ Presbyterian Church in Edina, MN. Visitation will take place one hour before. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Star Island Protective League Steve Blake Memorial Fund c/o Barbara Morris, 93A South Paseo Sarta, Golden Valley, AZ 85614.