Born July 2, 1933, Bob grew up in Dolores Colo., and attended DHS with sister Ann, where his mom taught and his dad (Bob Sr.) coached, was the principal and served as superintendent of Dolores School District.
Summer years were spent working in one of the Millard lumber mills, building fences on the Aiken ranch or for an area mining company. He was one of the last to ride the Galloping Goose railcar, to and from work at the Enterprise Mine in Rico.
He graduated from Colorado A&M with a degree in veterinary medicine, and at age 24 opened one of the first veterinary clinics in the Albuquerque area and was responsible for serving 300 square miles.
In 1947, after helping to consolidate the school district, his dad bought one of the surplus one-room schoolhouses (Bear Creek) at auction ,which became the family retreat and was utilized as Bob's lodge. While visiting he would usually stop by and see a neighbor or two, and if needed, treat one of their animals. The cabin is still enjoyed by the family.
His hunger to explore historical wilderness sites and areas of New Mexico and southern Colorado was fueled by his thirst for railroad, mining and Native Americanl history.
He also devoted much of his life to serving his church, community and volunteer animal rescue and service charities such as his supervisory role at the Watermelon Mountain (Rescue) Ranch in Rio Rancho, N.M.
One of the most likable people you could ever meet, he was also a great husband, father, brother, uncle, mentor, fellow worker and friend. He was compassionate, laid-back, humble, hardworking and hilarious.
His wife, Marlene, daughter Terri and rest of the family are grateful to the men and women of Montezuma and Dolores county sherriff's, fire and search and rescue departments for their dedication and service in treacherous conditions along Colorado 145.
Services will be held at Christian Fellowship Church, 3901 Claremont Ave., NE, Albuquerque, NM, 87110 at 2 p.m., Saturday, May 17.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make donations to the Watermelon Mountain (Rescue) Ranch Animal Center, on the web at www.wmranch.org "In memory of Dr. Bob Blake."
