Mary Irene Blake, age 87, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2007 in Bellingham.

She was born October 30, 1919 to Gerta and Alfred Quinn in Vancouver, B.C. She grew up in New Westminster where she met and married her husband, Bob. They moved to Coquitlam when their children where young. Mary was elected to two terms as president of the PTA at Mountain View Elementary School where her children were students.

Mary and Bob became naturalized citizens of the US in 1968. Mary continued to be active in numerous organizations. She received her Masters degree in China painting, was a singer in the choir at the Orcas Island Episcopal Church and enjoyed many winters golfing on Kauai and Palm Springs. Mary loved flowers and created beautiful gardens wherever she lived. She was also a beloved member of the ‘Red Hat’ ladies group and loved to model in fashion shows. Everyone who knew her admired her vitality, strength and love for family, friends and flowers. She left a mark on many peoples lives.

Mary was most recently and sadly preceded in death by her brother, James Quinn; sisters, Gertrude Armstrong and Freda Drake.

Mary will be sadly missed by her loving husband of 68 years, Robert E. Blake of Bellingham; daughters, Jeri O’Hara (Warren) of Vancouver, B.C., Sharon Haire of Newport Beach, Calif.; granddaughters, Chantelle Blake of Orcas Island, Cherie O’Callaghan (Michael) and great-grandson, Finn 0″Callaghan of Haverford, Penn. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Whatcom Hospice. A Memorial Service was held Saturday, March 24, 2007 at 2 p.m. at Merrill Gardens, 4414 Columbine Drive in Bellingham. Arrangements under the care of Jerns Funeral Chapel and On-Site Crematorium, Sunset and James.