Senate Resolution No. 5854

BY: Senator LITTLE

HONORING the memory and celebrating the life of
Francis K. Blake, Sr., a distinguished citizen,
admired colleague, trusted friend and devoted
community member

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework and civic endeavors
served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and the great
State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Francis (Frank) K. Blake, Sr., of Colonie, New York, died
on March 14, 2018, at the age of 71; and

WHEREAS, A true asset to the New York Senate for over 30 years,
Francis K. Blake, Sr., was employed in several capacities, most recently
as Director of Special Events, prior to his retirement; and

WHEREAS, Francis K. Blake, Sr., a proud patriot, served in the
United States Army from 1966-1968; and

WHEREAS, Francis K. Blake, Sr., was a long time Boy Scout Troop
Leader serving as mentor and friend, guiding young men and Eagle Scout
candidates as they worked to achieve personal success; and

WHEREAS, Francis K. Blake, Sr., was an invaluable event advisor to
the Albany Police Department for many years and served as Treasurer of
the Empire State Law Enforcement Memorial Fund; and

WHEREAS, Francis K. Blake, Sr., was a volunteer in his community and
worked over the years with Youth in Government, NYS Senior Games, The
Salvation Army and Father Peter Young's outreach programs; and

WHEREAS, Francis K. Blake, Sr., was the go-to guy in his
neighborhood and beyond, always willing to lend a helping hand; and

WHEREAS, Francis K. Blake, Sr., is survived by his beloved wife of
49 years, Maria Cataldo Blake; his three children, Frank (Teri) Blake,
Jr., Angela (Michael) Bombard and Anthony (Heidi) Blake; and his eight
grandchildren, JJ Papielion, Cole Bombard, Marissa, Makayla, Frankie,
Hailey, Olivia and Lainey Blake; and

WHEREAS, In addition to his tenacious work ethic and determined
commitment, Francis K. Blake Sr., will be remembered for not only his
warm smile and laughter, but for his kind and generous heart he shared
with his colleagues, family members and friends; he will truly be missed
by all those who had the honor of knowing him; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor the memory and celebrate the life of Francis K. Blake, Sr., a
distinguished citizen, admired colleague, trusted friend and devoted
community member; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Francis K. Blake, Sr.