Stephen J. Blake, 77, went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on April 12, 2023, after an 11 year battle with pulmonary fibrosis. Steve was born March 7, 1946, to the late Roger T. and Ragna E. Blake in Pauls Valley, OK. He attended Pauls Valley Schools and upon graduating in 1964, he attended the University of Oklahoma where he was a member of Sigma Nu fraternity. Upon graduation from OU in 1968, Steve went into the U.S. Army as an officer. He was on active duty for two years - 12 months of which were spent in Viet Nam. While serving he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with three clusters, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, two Army Commendation Medals and the Bronze Star Medal.

Upon returning from his tour in Viet Nam, he began his career in finance working for Capitol Federal Savings & Loan in Oklahoma City. After 21 years in the S & L industry, he went to work for the Oklahoma Finance Authorities retiring in 2012 as President of the Oklahoma Industrial Finance Authority.

Steve was a lifelong Methodist and a longtime active member of the First United Methodist Church of Oklahoma City until he was unable to attend due to health constraints. In his active years he served one time or more on almost every committee and was an active volunteer.

His family always came first. Steve married Sandra Moore in 1973. He was a devoted husband who deeply loved and appreciated his wife of almost 50 years and his children, Stephanie and Chris. He was a caring and encouraging father who was very proud of his children and grandchildren. He could think of no better way to spend time than to be with them. His most treasured memories were the many family cruises taken over the years.

Steve is survived by wife, Sandie; daughter Stephanie Russell (Jamie) and son Christopher (Shelly), granddaughters Lula Russell, Selah, Aliyah and Moriah Blake; and grandsons Max and Zeke Russell; sister Beverly Evans (Ralph); brothers Joe Blake and John Blake (Susanne). He was predeceased by his parents and brother Pearce Blake.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 15, 2023 at 1 p.m. in the sanctuary of the First United Methodist Church, 131 NW 4th St, Oklahoma City.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Steve's name to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 230 East Ohio Street, Suite 500, Chicago, IL 60611 or to First United Methodist Church-OKC, 131 NW 4th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73102.

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