Thomas Lee Blake

Tom Blake was born in St. Louis, Missouri on Dec. 15, 1934. In his younger years he lived in Denver, CO and Memphis, TN. After his family moved to Long Beach, California, he attended St. Anthony High School where he met his wife, Marty. They went on to share 67 wonderful years of marriage, building a life filled with family, friendship, laughter, and love.

Tom earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Loyola Marymount University and went on to receive his Doctor of Optometry degree from the University of Southern California. He had a thriving optometry practice in Cerritos for over 45 years where he worked side by side with his four daughters.

Outside of work, Tom loved adventure and being active. He enjoyed snow skiing and water skiing and was always happiest surrounded by people he loved. He was an active parishioner at St. Cyprian Parish where all 5 of his children attended school.

Tom will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his generous heart, his sense of adventure, and the many lives he touched throughout his 45 years of caring for his patients. His legacy will live on through his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all those fortunate enough to have known and loved him.

Tom passed away peacefully on Sept. 9, 2026. He leaves behind his five children, Jim, Laurie, Mary, Michelle, and Karen along with nine grandchildren and a growing number of great-grandchildren.