WATERBURY- It is with profound sadness and truly broken hearts that the family of Robert Raymond Blake, age 90, of Plymouth, formerly of Waterbury, shares the news of his unexpected passing at Bristol Hospital on Tuesday, December 9th, 2025. He was the loving husband of Ellen (Murphy) Blake.

Robert was born August 31st, 1935, in Waterbury, CT, the son of the late James E. and Josephine (Yuskas) Blake. Robert lived a life rich in education, service, and love. Robert began his journey in the vibrant halls of Crosby High School, and after a brief time at UConn, he answered the call of service, proudly serving his country as a paratrooper with the U.S. Army in Germany following World War II. This chapter of his life instilled in him a sense of duty and determination that would guide him well after his honorable discharge. Upon returning to Connecticut, Robert pursued his passion for education with fervor. He earned his undergraduate degree from UConn and then his master’s degree from Southern Connecticut State University. For 34 fulfilling years, he shared his love for history with students at the Russell School and Kennedy High School in Waterbury, inspiring young minds and fostering a love of learning until his retirement in 1996. A lifelong learner himself, Robert embraced his role as an instructor in the Ollie program at the UConn Waterbury branch. As a valued member and former Vice President of the WRTA Waterbury Retired Teachers Association, he created a book club that brought fellow educators together, celebrating the written word and the joy of sharing stories. In his personal time, Robert was passionate about many things. His love of reading was matched only by his enthusiasm for bowling, which he enjoyed on several leagues with his beloved, late sister Patricia. As a self-taught painter, he expressed his creativity in ways that touched the hearts of those around him. As we reflect on the life of Robert Raymond Blake, let us honor him by cherishing the memories, sharing the stories, and continuing to inspire young minds, just as he did so beautifully throughout his time with us. May you rest in peace, Robert, knowing you made a difference in the world.

 Left to honor his legacy and cherish his memory besides his wife, Ellen are his children; James Blake of Waterbury, Laura Blake of Bethel, Kristen Susman and her husband Mark of Hebron, Mary Ellen Gan and her husband Jonathan of Farmington. Robert and Ellen were blessed with 6 adoring grandchildren, Joshua, Alex, Blake, Sofia, Maple, and Sydney. He also leaves many nieces, nephews, and other extended family members, many colleagues, and friends. He is predeceased by several brothers and sisters, including Patricia Blake, with whom he had a special bond.

Funeral services for Mr. Blake will be held on Tuesday, December 16th, 2025, when a mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at Saint Gregory’s church, 235 Maltby St, Bristol, CT, at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be held privately and at the convenience of his family. Relatives and friends may visit with the Blake family on Monday, December 15th, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Casey’s Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main St, Waterbury, CT 06705. To honor Robert’s memory and in lieu of flowers, To honor Robert’s memory and in lieu of flowers, donations to St Jude Childrens Research Hospital www.stjude.org (or 1650 W 82nd St., Suite 400, Minneapolis, MN 55431) and/or to the Waterbury Retired Teachers Association Scholarship Fund (Elaine McCabe at 118 Cider Mill Crossing, Torrington, CT 06790) would be most gratefully appreciated by his family. Casey's Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care has been honored to care for Robert and the Blake family during this difficult time. Loving kindness is always welcome, and it only takes a moment to offer a message of condolence, words of comfort, or share a memory with the family and friends of someone important to you on the funeral home website.