BALDWINVILLE, Mass. — Donald C. Blake Jr., 53, of Elm Street, Baldwinville, died Saturday, Jan. 16, 2010, following a long illness. He passed away peacefully at his home in the loving care of his wife, Anne Marie. During the past week he got to enjoy many visits with his family and friends, who were able to share a lot of love, laughter and special memories.

He was born Nov. 6, 1956, in Keene, son of the late Jeanette (Bowen) and Donald C. Blake Sr.

His early years were spent in Keene; he later had lived in Fitzwilliam, Winchendon, Mass., Wise, N.C., and Keene again for a period of time, but his heart was always in Baldwinville.

For many years, Donald had worked at General Box in Winchendon as lead mechanic and had held many positions at various factories in the area.

More recently he was owner of Don’s Painting, which his family helped him run until he was no longer able to physically participate.

He was someone who truly enjoyed the simple things in life, be it spending time with family and friends, always, always, with music woven into the fabric of his being. He shared his love of music with everyone he met. “The louder the better,” was his motto. He also enjoyed his Harley, NASCAR, and all the little things in life that gave him true pleasure.

Survivors include his wife of 15 years, Anne Marie (Hill) Blake; a daughter, Dawn Marie Blake of Baldwinville; two sons, Daniel Walter Hill and Samuel Charles Hill, both of Baldwinville; a granddaughter Angela Donna Hill, whom he especially treasured spending time with; a sister, Lynnda Doub and her husband, Michael, of Winston-Salem, N.C.; three brothers, John A. Blake and his wife, Mary, of Fitzwilliam, William Blake of Swanzey and Alan Blake and his fiancée, Anna Mackenzie of Keene; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends.

As per his request, there will be no calling hours.

Private burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery, Royalston Road, Fitzwilliam.

The family will be holding a celebration of his life on May 29, time and place to be announced later. The family encourages friends to bring a happy memory to share.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, 249 Canal St., Manchester 03101.

The Cournoyer Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 33 River St., Jaffrey, is assisting the family.

To view an online memorial, send a condolence to the family or for more information, please visit www.cournoyerfh.com.