David Ray Blake, 77, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Sunday, April 29, 2018 at his home in Russell with his family by his side.

David was born November 18, 1940 in Augusta, Kansas, the son of Irwin and Esther Ila (Arnold) Blake.
During the first grade, David and his family moved to Russell where he grew up.  He graduated from Russell High School.

David served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.  After his tour of duty, he returned to the Russell area.

David was united in marriage to Ruby Mohl in 1968 in Great Bend.  They made their home in Russell.  Ruby preceded him in death on September 18, 2007.

David has been a Farmer/Ranch most all of his life.  He did some work in the oil patch and when he was younger he worked at the C.O. Mammals Grocery Store.  He was a life member of the Russell American Legion Post.  He also belonged to the Kansas Draft Horse Association, Russell County Saddle Club and the Russell Muzzle Loaders.  He also was a volunteer fireman for Grant First District for over 39 years.  He truly loved spending time with his horses, riding or driving them.  He also enjoyed coyote hunting and every day he looked forward to eating breakfast with the guys at Meridy’s restaurant. .

David’s  surviving family include his daughter, Leah M. Maupin of Russell, Kansas; brother, Donald Blake (Charlotte) of El Dorado, Kansas; sister, Joyce Scott (Bob) of Augusta, Kansas; and granddaughter, Shannon Maupin.  He was preceded in death by his parents and wife Ruby.

Celebration of David’s Life will be held at 10:30 AM, Friday, May 4, 2018 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell.  Burial will follow at the Russell City Cemetery where the Russell V.F.W. Post will conduct Military Rites.  Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Thursday, May 3, 2018 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, with the family present to greet friends from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
A memorial has been established with Kansas Draft Horse Association.  Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.