David J. Blake

1971 - 2025

David J. Blake
Born: March 5, 1971
Died: March 29, 2025

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the passing of David J. Blake, who left this world peacefully on March 29, 2025, surrounded by love. A devoted father, friend, seeker, and soul of many talents, David brought warmth, creativity, and light to everyone fortunate enough to know him. Born and raised in rural Johnsburg, Illinois, David's early life was full of color and connection. He was Prom King at Johnsburg High School, a proud member of the Johnsburg Breakers breakdancing crew, and a loyal friend to many-friendships that would last a lifetime. He went on to attend North Central College in Naperville, IL, where he played football and formed meaningful bonds with new friends and old. It was there that he met Kimberly, with whom he would build a life and raise a family. Together they moved to Chicago, and later to San Clemente, California, where they raised their two daughters, Hunter and Frankie. Though David and Kimberly later chose to live separately, their decision was made with love and intention-for the wellbeing of their family and to allow David space to pursue the healing path he felt called to. Their connection remained strong, and Kimberly was by his side in his final days. In 2020, following a cancer diagnosis, David immersed himself in various healing modalities-including Reiki, yoga, veganism, meditation, and SOMA breathwork. While this path was not always easy for those closest to him, it became a space where he connected with others and offered support in his own way. His time as a breathwork facilitator at a local yoga studio brought a sense of purpose and community, and he found meaning in holding space for others on their own journeys. David's story is a reminder that growth is not always linear and easy-but possible even in life's most difficult chapters. In his final chapter, he found connection, community, and a way to be of service to others. May we honor his memory by showing up with honesty, humility, and compassion - for ourselves and each other. David was preceded in death by his brother Mathew Blake, his brother-in-law Mark Suda, his father-in-law Richard Suda. He is survived by his two daughters, Hunter Blake and Frankie Blake; their mother and his longtime partner in life and parenting, Kimberly Suda; his mother, Nancy (Justen) Blake, his father, Donald Blake; his sister, Debbie Drinkwater, and her son Nicholas Blake; his sister-in-law Jennifer (Tomaselli) Blake (widow of Mathew), and their children Lena, Toria, and Alex; his mother-in-law Sophia (Ilich) Suda, his sister-in-law Kathleen Suda (widow of Mark), and their son Riley; and a wide and deeply connected circle of chosen family and friends who became his extended tribe. Those who knew David remember his multifaceted spirit-a true renaissance man. He was an artist, musician, philosopher, and comedian. He lived fully and asked others to do the same. Whether in a deep conversation, a shared laugh, or a moment of stillness, David helped others feel seen.