RICHARD D. “DICK” BLAKE age 84, loving husband for 34 years of Lorraine (nee Stephens); cherished son of the late Russell and Carrie (nee Cresson); devoted brother of the late Lorene Greer (husband Glenn dec.); dearest brother-in-law of Dale Thiebaut, Leslie Stephens and Joyce Schreiner; dear uncle and great uncle of many.
Dick was born on June 29, 1935 in Helen, WV and died on Friday, October 4, 2019. For most of his life, he was fortunate to be a Cleveland resident. Several decades ago, exercising his entrepreneurial talents, he opened his ballroom dance studio. Eventually his business expanded until it merged quite naturally with the teaching of manners and etiquette. He was a professional ballroom dancer, an award-winning instructor and a choreographer. His students have included many celebrities, athletes, and politicians. He has been featured in more than 100 television shows and hundreds of radio programs and print publications. He was an etiquette consultant, professional development speaker and customer service etiquette trainer. Dick’s greatest joy was dancing and performing with his wife, Lorraine, who was also his business partner. Many people have expressed their gratitude for the changes in their lives that he helped bring about by virtue of the skills he readily shared with them. Dick will long be remembered as a dance master and witty gentleman who valued the importance of the social graces.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in memory of Dick to Hospice of the Western Reserve P.O. Box 72101, Cleveland, OH 44192.
Cremation by DeJohn Crematory. Celebration of Life Service Friday, October 11, 2019 at 7 PM at THE FUNERAL HOME. Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Dick at THE DeJOHN FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATIONS CENTER OF CHESTERLAND 12811 CHILLICOTHE ROAD (Rt. 306, just south of Mayfield Rd.) FRIDAY 4-7 PM.
Charity Name: HOSPICE OF THE WESTERN RESERVE INC
Charity EIN: 341256377
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Gino Giancola & Family
Lorraine,
Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. May God give you strength in this difficult time.
Jan and Frank Gabbert
Our sincere sympathy to Lorraine and Dick’s family knowing that today’s sadness will be gradually replaced by many joyful and happy memories of the great influence Dick had on many people. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Diane McFiggen
Lorraine-
My deepest sympathy to you and Dick’s family. His positive influence on the many people he encountered will be remember long into the future. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Roberta L. Trutko
I recall “forcing” my son to attend Mr. Blake’s dance & etiquette classes at Rocky River Middle School, about 8 years ago. Due to Mr. Blake’s wit & teaching style, my son soon appreciated the life lesson tips that were taught. In the final class, the young gentlemen practiced their new social skills by asking a young lady to dance. Afterwards, he then invited her (& her parents!) to a local ice cream parlor. Thanks to Mr. Blake, my son had a fine introduction to manners & common courtesy. I sincerely hope that Mr. Blake’s friends & family also have happy, fond memories of him. Thoughts & prayers to you all.
Jeffery Wyatt Haneline
I wish I would have had the pleasure of knowing Dick better.
Patrick Woodside
I was one of Mr. Blake’s many students. Many happy memories
attending Sunday afternoon group dance classes at Cuyahoga
Community College/west. He even danced with our group one evening
at Michaud’s Nite spot. Here’s to happy memories of a life well lived.
Rest in peace my friend & best wishes to all your loved ones
& students.
Pete Borbely
Mr. Blake was mentioned by Fr. Bob Stec today 5/10/2020 at our Sunday homily. I looked him up to see where he moved and just learned of Mr. Blake’s death today, very sad. Him and I had many discussions about his business, his clients and just…life. Always enjoyed talking with him when he was at his studio in Beachwood. May he rest in peace.