James E Blake's Obituary
James E Blake, age 94, of Oshkosh, passed away on Saturday November 5, 2022 at his home. He finished the race and collected the checkered flag surrounded by his entire family. He was born in Oshkosh on January 27, 1928 the son of the late Phillip and Francis (Lord) Blake. Jim married Marie Harnitz on May 3, 1953. She preceded him in death on August 9, 1992. He served his country in the U.S. Army during WW II. Jim was the flagman at Leo’s Speedway for decades and also flagged at WIR in Kaukauna, WI. He drove for Kieckhefer in the Mexican Road Race. He owned a bar and gas station. Jim had a pack of pals he ran with for years. Jim sold cars, liquor and truck parts. The endeavor that made him most proud was his job as promoter, agent, prop maker and coach of his grandson, Mike Price Juggler. He played Mike’s sidekick as “Spare Tire the Clown” when Michael began entertaining. In 2000 his efforts paid off when Michael won the world championship Juggling Competition in Montreal, Canada.
Jim was a member of the SSIYC for 50 + years. He was a commadore several times and volunteered many hours at the club. His favorite pass time was telling stories and drinking peppered beer at the club. His stories, laugh and enthusiasm were unforgettable. He enjoyed boating and snowmobiling and followed NASCAR (Brian, you owe him a buck!), MMA fighting and spending time with his great grandchildren. He was very proud of his Irish heritage. His lifelong wish to avoid entering a nursing home was made possible by his daughter (Kim) and caregiver, Sue King who made sure he had everything he needed during his final years. Heaven gained one class act when you left our side, we will miss and love you always, Grandpa!
Jim is survived by, one daughter; Kim (Mark “Rock”) Blake-Jungwirth, Oshkosh, WI, one son Paul (Holly) Tod of Lohrville, WI, three grandchildren; Mike (Stephanie) Price, Las Vegas, NV, Melissa “Lisa” (Brian) Winter, La Crosse, WI, Jim Jungwirth, Oshkosh, WI, three great-grandchildren; Olivia & Bennett Winter and Bleu Price, one brother; Daniel (Bev) Blake, one sister-in-law; Jeanne Blake and one brother-in-law; Kenny Kovar all of Milwaukee, WI. Jim is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by two brothers; Tom Blake, Bud (Pauline) Blake, three sisters; Mary (Arnie) Bradshaw, Judy Kovar, Patsy Blake, and one grandson; Zach Jungwirth.
Funeral services for Jim will be held in the Fiss & Bills-Poklasny Home (865 S Westhaven Oshkosh) on Thursday November 10, at 1:00 PM. Burial will be in Peace Lutheran Cemetery. Family and friends may call at the funeral home on Thursday from 11:00 AM until the hour of services.
What’s your fondest memory of James?
What’s a lesson you learned from James?
Share a story where James' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with James you’ll never forget.
How did James make you smile?