Melvin Charles Blake

     Melvin Charles Blake, age 83 of New Bethlehem, went home to be with his Heavenly Father and the love of his life, Rochelle, who he dearly missed, on Sunday, April 14, 2024 at his home.

     Born June 17, 1940 in Putneyville, he was the son of the late Frank Blake and Mary Yount Blake. Following the death of his father, when he was very young, he was raised by his mother, Mary, and her husband, Charles Wells.

     On November 12, 1960 he married the former Rochelle Galene Smtih.  She preceded him in death on December 26, 2023.

    Melvin worked as an equipment operator and foreman for Reddinger Coal Company then as an assistant supervisor for PennDOT.  He and his wife, Rochelle, owned and operated Miller’s Hoagie Shop and Village Dairy. 

     He was a member of Masonic Lodge #522 of New Bethlehem, Shriners and Coudersport Consistory.

     He served as president of the South Bethlehem Borough council for over 50 years.

     Melvin lived life to it’s fullest, along with giving of his talents to the Lord.  

     He was a member of the Oakland Church of God in Distant, where he was involved in the Living Tree and Living Flag productions, went on mission trips and drove the church bus.

    Melvin found great joy in spending time with his children and grandkids. Enjoyed carpentry, loved spending time at his camp and mowing.

     Left behind to cherish his memory are his son, Ken Blake and his wife, Mandy, of New Bethlehem  and their children: Steven Blake, wife Jennifer, and children, Duncan and Trinity Blake, and grandson, Beau Blake,  and Kenndra Cravener, husband Tim, and children, Emma and Avery Cravener; and Daughter, Suzette Gunter and her husband, Mark, of New Bethlehem and their children: Denelle Procious, husband Ryan, and children, Abigail, Tenley, Gunner and Evelyn Procious, and Toni Ryver, husband Nate, and children, Paisley and Prudence Ryver.

     In addition to his parents, step-father and wife, Melvin was preceded in death by sisters: Nila Minich, Lomia Wells and Clara Belle “Shorty” Downs.

     Family and friends will be received from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Thursday, April 18, 2024 at the Oakland Church of God, 122 Kohlersburg Road, Distant.

     Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, April 19, 2024 in the church with Reverend Jimmy Swogger, pastor of the church, officiating.

     Interment will follow in the Oakland Cemetery in Distant, Armstrong County.

     Memorial contributions may be made in the name of Melvin Charles Blake to the Oakland Church of God, P.O. Box 40, Distant, PA 16223

    Online condolences may be sent to Melvin’s family at www.rupertfuneralhomes.com

     Arrangements are under the direction of the Rupert Funeral Home and Cremation Service of New Bethlehem.

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