VICKERS, Blake Hartley
June 1, 1920 - December 20, 2016
On December 20th, 2016, Blake Hartley Vickers passed away peacefully in his sleep in the Coalbank Wing of the Drumheller Regional Health Center. He lived a full life of 96 years. Blake was born on June 1, 1920 to N.B. and Bertha Vickers in their family home on 2nd St W. Drumheller, AB. He completed his primary and secondary schooling in Drumheller. Blake attended the Hepburn School of Business in Calgary, graduating in June 1940. He returned to Drumheller to work with his father N.B. in the hardware store. Blake was a Boy Scout leader and along side his best friend Gordon Taylor, attended many World Scout Jamborees as well as becoming District Commissioner. During World War II, Blake was stationed in Kingston, Ontario as a Pass Clerk. When he returned home he met the love of his life. On October 2, 1946, he married Jennifer Serkownak and shared 59 years together. They had five children. After the N.B. Vickers store was sold to Ashdowns in 1962, Blake pursued a new career in farming. Upon retiring from the farm, Blake would help his son Jack in the drug store. One of his fondest memories was opening the store after hours so Kirk Douglas could do some shopping. In 2013 he moved from his home on 2nd St. W. to Hillview Lodge where he resided until he was hospitalized in June. Blake was an avid Blue Jays fan and attended the first world series game played in Canada in 1992. He was our family historian, as Blake enjoyed telling stories about growing up in Drumheller. He also had a passion for sports, participating and watching baseball, hockey, curling and tennis. Blake was a member of the Masons, Symbol Lodge 93 and in June was presented his 70th year bar. Blake is survived by his children Nelson (Mary Anne), Mary (Dale) Hobbs, Jack (Valerie), Joan (Rick) Nelson, 12 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Blake was predeceased by his parents Bertha, N.B and step mother Nellie Vickers, sister Margaret, brother Bruce, his wife Jennifer and son Billy. The family would like to thank Dr. Dayo and the staff at the Drumheller Regional Health Center for their care and kindness. A special thank you to the staff at Hillview Lodge for the care and friendship they provided. At Blake’s request a private family graveside service will be held. In Blake’s memory, donations can be made to Drumheller and District Seniors Foundation 696 6 Ave E. Drumheller T0J 0Y5. Courtney-Winter’s Funeral Homes are in care of the arrangements.
“Happy to meet. Sorry to part. Happy to meet again!”
