Florence M. Blake

Florence M. Blake, age 94, passed away in Elmont, New York, on Sept. 18, 2025.

She was born in Altoona, Pennsylvania, on Feb. 4, 1931, to Joseph C. and Bertha L. (Gauntner) McGough, who preceded her in death.

Florence is survived by her children, Raymond (Lori) Blake, Norman Blake, Dean Blake, Phyllis Blake, Cary Blake, and Janice and Braulio Baeza; grandchildren, Alex, Shelby (Norman), Sienna, James (Dean), Macy and Hunter (Cary); and sister, Janet Hogue.

She is also preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Gilbert H. Blake; her siblings, Alice Vogel Bianculli, Paul and wife Evelyn McGough, Edgar and wife Mary McGough, Norman McGough, Mary Louise and husband Ralph Holtz, and Eugene McGough.

Upon her youngest child entering kindergarten, Florence completed her studies at Purdue North Central in Westville, Indiana, graduating in 1978 with a Bachelor of Arts and a master's in education.

Florence taught school for many years as well as being a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker. She was also a mutual funds registered representative with Planned Investment Company. In her retirement years, she enjoyed working as a sales associate at Carson Pirie Scott's in the Marquette Mall.

Florence was involved and a member of many local organizations, including the Red Hat Society, the Senior Center, Monday Musicale, the Michigan City Community Concert Series, Business and Professional Women, the National Association of Security Dealers and Toastmaster's International. She was also a member of WAGS – the Women's Golf League, and the Northwest Racquetball Club, as well as being on the board of the American Cancer Society.

She enjoyed volunteering at St. Anthony's Hospital, playing the piano, reading, playing bridge, tennis and golf. She also loved to paint rocks. Florence loved being with her family, grandchildren and friends.

Visitation is from 10 to 11 a.m. at St. Mary the Immaculate Conception Church, located at 411 W. 10th St, Michigan City, Indiana, on Monday, Sept. 29, 2025. The Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 a.m. with Father Zachary Glick officiating. Interment will be immediately after Mass at Swan Lake Memorial Gardens.

Expressions of sympathy may be made in Florence's memory to the Queen of All Saints Building Fund, Michigan City, Indiana.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Geisen-Carlisle Funeral Home, 613 Washington St., Michigan City, Indiana; 219-874-4214. To view or sign Florence's online guestbook, please visit carlislefh.com.