Obituary for Kenny Lee Blake, 83, of La Crosse WI formerly of Decorah IA.
In loving memory of Kenny Lee Blake

June 25, 1940 – July 13, 2023

Kenny was a beloved husband, father, grandpa, great-grandpa, brother, and loyal friend to many. He was married to the love of his life, Anita, for 38 years. It all started with a broken foot, a pink turtleneck and a habit that needed broken. They loved each other deeply and were committed to spending all their time together. Kenny lived life to the fullest. While living in Florida he and Anita enjoyed time on the beach, collecting shark teeth, fishing in the ocean and tailgating with friends as a diehard Jaguars fan. Family brought them back home to Wisconsin and many weekends were spent camping, pontooning and fishing in Chetek.

Kenny’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren were a priority in his life, fun always ensued. Simple moments with his grandchildren and family created  the most priceless memories. Epic water fights, boating escapades, camping adventures and just hanging out, created memories that we’ll carry with us forever.
His love and joy for life was felt by everyone he encountered. Neighbors, coworkers, and customers so often became friends. A trip to Menards wasn’t complete without a visit with Kenny.

Kenny and Anita were passionate about rescuing animals, those adopted were felt to have won the puppy lottery. Never was a meal eaten out, that a doggie bag wasn’t brought home to share. The dog toys are so plentiful that the dogs have 3 toys boxes (the great grandkids have 1). The dogs that have crossed the rainbow bridge are on a long walk with Kenny now.

Kenny loved food. Kenny loved cooking food. Kenny loved baking food. Kenny loved sharing food. Kenny didn’t just bring joy to a party, he brought lots of delicious food. He ultimately baked the world a better place.

He loved and appreciated his doctors / hospice team, they were true earth angels. They brought kindness and joy to his day when he truly needed it. In return, he enjoyed sharing his sense of humor to put a smile on their faces.

He is preceded in death by his parents Richard “Bud” & Frances Blake, brother Richard, and many 4-legged kids.

He is survived by his wife Anita
Daughters: Julie (Dave) Swenson, Jodie Blake, Jennifer (Eric) McManaman, Traci (Jeremy) Woolard
Stepson: Steven Van Zandt
Grandchildren: Dillon (Brittany) Anderson, Dacia (Miller) Cenat, Brittney (Aron) Dahl, Amanda (Matt) Timmerman, Kyla Dickey (Erich Thalaker), Alyssa Dickey, Mitchell McManaman, Adam McManaman, A.J. (Alyssa) McManaman, Shaye McManaman, Blake Woolard, Elizabeth Woolard, Christopher Woolard, Jessica Woolard
Great grandchildren: Alayna, Harper, Makai, Tayva, Brock, Layne, Drake, Bayler, Grayson, Everett, Jack
4-legged kids: Hallie, Oreo, Maisie
What his family learned from the way Kenny lived his life is to enjoy life no matter the circumstances. Put others first. Kindness matters. Laughter helps. Family is everything.
A family Memorial Service was held July 15, 2023 by the river in La Crosse.
Memorials may be directed to Mayo Hospice in La Crosse.
Coulee Region Cremation Group in Onalaska is assisting the family.