Claire Mae Blake

Claire Blake died on March 12, 2020 with family by her hospital bed in Baltimore MD. She was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Richard Blake, her parents Michael Gerlach and Cecelia (nee Crumbacker), her brothers Michael and Joseph, and her sister Ann Wall. Claire was a 1956 graduate of the Institute of Notre Dame (IND) and a long-time parishioner and volunteer of Saint William of York church, both in Baltimore MD.

Claire embraced life to its fullest putting God first. Her greatest joy was her family and friends with whom she was extremely generous and loved unconditionally. She was the bond that held all her loved ones together and appeared to have unending energy. Claire loved to hold and/or organize events and parties over the decades so that she could enjoy her time with those she loved most. She always had the perfect hat for any occasion which showcased her style and grace and the appropriate decorations for any event.

Claire was a founding member of the Butterfly Club, which she adored. She was an inspiration and role model for all, especially as a woman for her daughter in-laws, her granddaughters and treasured nieces. Claire also loved to read, stay up to date on current events, be an active member of her community, and had a passion for finding a great deal on items...even if she didn’t need the item.

Claire is survived by her four sons, Earl, Mark, Scott, and Paul. Their spouses Liz and Margaret, and fiancé Kelly. Their children and Claire’s grandchildren Brenda Velez and her husband Rick, Candice Brauner, Matthew Blake, Scott Blake Jr and his wife Lexi, Brandon Blake, Bryan Blake, James Martin, Catherine Martin, Megan Sweeney, Ryan Sweeney, Erin Sweeney, Matthew Wong, and Zalman Wong. Her great-grandchildren Nathan Velez, Ezekiel Velez, Finn Brauner, and Grayson Blake. And her much-loved sister in-law Mary Hamper, sister in-law Betty Gerlach, and brother in-law Richard Wall. Claire loved and was beloved by many nieces, nephews and numerous friends.