Albert Porter Blake

Al, as he was known by family and friends, was a devoted father, loving husband, and a respected member of his community. He leaves behind his cherished wife, Pam Blake, as well as his 3 children, 8 grandchildren, and many others whose lives were touched by his kindness, wisdom, and generosity. Al will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Upon graduating from Farmington High School (1954), he attended Fort Lewis College. While at Fort Lewis College he learned that the Navy would allow him to become an officer and naval aviator without a four-year degree - an offer he could not pass up.

After joining the Navy, he began his flight training in Pensacola and later received his wings as a Naval Aviator and the rank of Lieutenant JG. This began a proud twenty-year long career in the Navy. During his service he had three tours stationed aboard the aircraft carrier USS Forrestal, part of the US Navy Sixth Fleet. These tours allowed him to travel extensively throughout the Mediterranean, visiting many countries in Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and Israel. In addition to his tours of duty on the USS Forrestal, he also had two tours of duty in Italy and Sicily. Al initially flew A1 Skyraiders, a propeller-driven attack aircraft, capable of missions involving the use of atomic weapons. Later he flew C-1, C-2, and C-54, all multi-engine propeller aircraft. During his career with the Navy, Al made several hundred successful aircraft carrier landings without incident. His skill as a pilot was demonstrated early on, when during his first solo flight, his throttle cable came undone, causing his plane to idle mid-flight. Despite this, he was able to safely land his aircraft in a farmer’s field. He retired from active duty in 1977 after an honorable career.

Following his retirement from the Navy, Al used his skills as a carpenter and craftsman (refined on many home projects over the years) and embarked on a successful twenty-year career working with a Southern California Property Management Company. His knowledge, professionalism, and strong work ethic made him highly respected in his field. But it was his kindness, generosity, and general good nature that made him a pleasure to be around and work with.

After the military, Al continued to live in various locales from Northern California to Anchorage, Alaska. In 1992, he married his beloved wife of 32 years, Pam. Together, they made their home in Orange County, California, before moving to Colorado Springs in their later years.

Al was a lifetime member of the Church of Christ and participated actively in church services, primarily as a song leader, which he began at tender age of 9 and continued until age 86. His deep faith and dedication to his church were evident in the way he lived his life and served all those around him.

Al’s legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched with his generosity, his integrity, and his sense of humor. He was a man who cherished family, embraced adventure, and devoted himself to the service of others, whether it be his family, friends, neighbors, or the nation.

A memorial service will be held on [date] at [location]. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to your favorite Veterans charity in his honor.

Al will be remembered all those he touched with love and admiration. For a life well lived - May he rest in peace.