James "Jim" Bernard Blake

James Bernard Blake, lovingly known as “Jim,” was born on October 2, 1947, in Graceville, Minnesota, to Bernard “Bernie” and Emma Blake. He was raised in farm life, being one of seven siblings, where life was filled with laughter, love, and plenty of lively energy.

During his Senior year of high school, Jim’s family moved to Ortonville, Minnesota, in 1965. Jim decided to finish where he started. He ended up staying with a friend and graduated from Clinton High School that same year.

Jim began his career at the Big Stone Canning Factory in Big Stone, South Dakota, and went on to build a strong work ethic through a variety of jobs over the years. His work included time at the Cheese Factory in Milbank, South Dakota, Thompson Roofing, Staeger, Web Enterprise, and ultimately Gremada, all in Fargo, North Dakota, where he retired in 2009.

In 1971, Jim met the love of his life, Teresa “Terry.” He returned home and told his mother he was going to marry her… and he did. Jim and Terry were married on June 17, 1972, and together they built a life centered on love and family. They welcomed their son Stacy in Fort Dodge, Iowa, in 1973, and their son Steven in Milbank, South Dakota, in 1976. Later that year, they made Fargo their lifelong home.

Jim found joy in the simple things and loved being outdoors, whether he was golfing, fishing, or bowling. He also enjoyed watching sports of any kind, often with a bowl of popcorn close by. Even with his eyes closed, he would insist he was “still watching” what was on the television. He took great pride in his yard, often relaxing on his patio while admiring the crisp mowing lines and the results of his hard work.

A man who valued community, Jim was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, where he found fellowship through faith, service, and friendship. Jim was a familiar face at The Shack, where he enjoyed breakfast every morning with his close friends, sharing stories, laughter, and conversation. Jim had a special place in his heart for his dogs: Vader, Lady, and Geordie. He and Geordie shared a particularly close bond, taking daily walks around the block and following their familiar routine at the dog park.

Above all, Jim loved being a grandpa and adored his two beautiful granddaughters, Kaitlin Blake (Ben Owen) and Seralyn (Amanda) Blake Heiden, who brought him immense pride and joy.

Jim is survived by his wife, Teresa Blake; sons, Stacy, and Steven (Trista) Blake; sisters, Judy (Phil) Kucera, Kathy (Tom) Magee, and Deb (Bob) Loy; granddaughters, Kaitlin Blake (Ben Owen), and Seralyn (Amanda) Blake Heiden; and many family and friends.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Emma; brothers, Thomas “Tom”, William “Bill”, and Robert “Bob”; and sister, Janet Blake.

Jim will be remembered for his steady presence, his warm sense of humor, and the way he found joy in life’s simplest moments. His love for his family, his faith, and his friendships were unwavering. Though he is no longer with us, the memories he created and the love he shared will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.