John J Blake

John J. Blake, age 86, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at Blue Bell Place, just a short distance from the home where he was raised. He was surrounded by the love of his devoted granddaughter in his final moments.

Born on April 1, 1939, in Norristown, John was the beloved son of the late John and Gladys (Beideman) Blake. He was raised in Whitpain Township and graduated from Wissahickon High School in 1957. He went on to earn his associate’s degree from Montgomery County Community College, and furthered his education in psychology through courses at the College of William and Mary during his time in the U.S. Navy.

John was a member of St. Titus church, he served his country with honor in the United States Navy as a Hospital Corpsman, working in psychiatric hospitals as a mental health technician. His dedication to public service carried on in civilian life, beginning as a part-time police officer with the Whitpain Township Police Department. He also worked as a prison guard at Montgomery County Prison and as a school bus driver before becoming a full-time officer.

John found his calling as a Juvenile Officer, eventually rising to the rank of Juvenile Sergeant. Throughout his 30-year career with the Whitpain Police Department, John was passionately involved in youth mentorship, town watch initiatives, and crime prevention programs. He was a strong advocate for at-risk youth, working not only with children but also their families. He visited local schools often, championing safety and education, and was a proud instructor of the D.A.R.E. Program.

Following his retirement from the police force in 1995, John worked for two years as a bodyguard and then as a security guard at the Montgomery County Courthouse until his official retirement in 2011.

John’s dedication to service extended beyond his professional life. He was a member of F.O.P. Lodge #14, serving as its President in 1976, and was also involved with the Patriotic Order Sons of America, Knights of Columbus, Catholic War Veterans, Pennsylvania Juvenile Officers Association (past president), Montgomery County Juvenile Advisory Committee (past chairman), International Juvenile Officers Association, Crime Prevention Officers Association, and the International Society of Crime Prevention Practitioners. He also served on the Board of Directors for Turning Point, Inc.

John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carmela, just shy of their 60th wedding anniversary. He is survived by his loving daughters: Theresa Marie, Anne Marie (Steven), and Lisa Marie; and his cherished grandchildren, Rebekah and Jacob. He was also predeceased by his brother Donald and sister Donna.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend John’s viewing and funeral service on Friday, July 18, at the Volpe Funeral Home, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with a service to follow at 12:00 PM. Interment with Military Honors will take place at St. Patrick’s Mausoleum.

John J. Blake will be remembered as a man of honor, compassion, and integrity—whose legacy of service, mentorship, and devotion to his family and community will live on in the countless lives he touched.

In Lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project. Wounded Warrior Project 

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