Chad Blake

Chad E. Blake, age 44 unexpectedly passed away of natural causes going to his heavenly home on December 16, 2019, in Hendersonville, TN. Chad was born on June 23, 1975, to Dennis and Dolores (Freund) Blake.

Chad grew up in Merrill and was a graduate of Merrill High School. Following graduation, he traveled to California and then began to move east; Colorado, South Dakota and then Nashville, TN which allowed him to pursue his passion for music. Chad loved to play piano, guitar and was an accomplished drummer. His love of the outdoors led him to enjoy boating, skiing, snowmobiling, BMX and dirt bike riding, hiking and panning for gold. He was a mechanic by trade and had his own shop. Chad was known for his adventuresome spirit and his generous heart. Family and friends were very important to him and his strong faith kept him centered. He was baptized and confirmed at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church.

Chad is survived by his parents, Dennis and Dolores Blake; his brother, Ryan (Theresa) Blake, niece Adalyn, nephew Bentley, many other relatives and friends and two companions that held a special place in Chad's heart, his faithful dogs, Rocky and Lexi.

Chad was preceded in death by grandparents: Helen & Ervin Freund, Eleda & Emmett Blake, cousins Mark Vaningan and Shannon Blake, uncles Duane, Gerald and Douglas Freund and Joe Vaningan, aunt Judith Jones.

Celebration of life for Chad will be 11:00 AM on Saturday, January 4, 2020 at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, Merrill. Pastor Pat Schutz will officiate. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:30 AM until time of service at church with a lunch to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be given to Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, Merrill Community Homeless Center or Lincoln County Hu mane Society.