Stephen Arnold Blake

July 24, 1946- October 20, 2025

Stephen Arnold "Steve" Blake, affectionately known by many as Silver Fox and Info, passed away on October 20, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Steve lived an extraordinary life, one marked by courage, adventure, and a deep sense of purpose.

In 1966, he began his journey at Officer Candidate School, followed by Flight School at Ft. Rucker, where his passion for flying took flight. He served his country with great pride as a pilot of the O1 Bird Dog spotter plane in Vietnam from 1967 to 1968, later returning to Ft. Rucker for helicopter training.

In 1969, Steve joined the 2nd Armored Division at Ft. Hood, and by 1970, he was flying Huey and Cobra helicopters in Vietnam with the 1st Cavalry Division He was awarded the Purple Heart. His service continued at Ft. Sill for Artillery Advance training in 1971 and again at Ft. Hood with the First Cavalry Division until his honorable discharge in 1980. Steve went on to a distinguished aviation career.

After completing his military service, Steve earned his degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He worked for an oil company in Oklahoma City before joining Jet East in 1988. In 1995, he began working with Bombardier Aerospace (FlexJet), where he remained until his well-earned retirement in 2013.

In retirement, Steve and his wife, Dona, made their home in Georgetown, Texas. He found joy in quiet mornings, walks with his dog, riding his Harley, taking trips near and far, and spending time with family and friends. Known for his calm, steady presence and endless stories from a life in the skies, Steve brought warmth and laughter to everyone who knew him.

Steve is survived by his beloved wife, Dona; his son, Baron, of St. Petersburg, Florida; his daughter Julie Salisbury (Mike); sister, Marian Mayhall; his brother, John Armstrong (Charmen); his stepdaughter, Leigh Gomez (David); and his stepson, Brad (Kiki). He was a proud grandfather to eight wonderful grandchildren and a cherished uncle to several nieces and a nephew. Steve also leaves behind countess friends, especially Kent Grubbs, whom he lovingly thought of as a little brother.

A graveside service with Army Honors will be held at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery, located at 11463 TX-195, Killeen, Texas 76542, on November 10, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.

You are warmly invited to join the family after the graveside at Mulligan's restaurant located at, 150 Dove Hollow Trail, Georgetown (Sun City), Texas, for food and fellowship from 12:30-3:30PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Steve's name to Disabled veterans, Tunnel to Towers, or any animal charity of your choice.

His final flight is now complete, may he rest in eternal peace.