Ernest S. Blake, Jr., 70, of Main Street, Andover, died on August 17, 2022. He was born in New London on May 5, 1952, the son of the late Ernest S. Blake, Sr. and H. Viola (Doyle) Blake.

He was a lifelong resident of Andover and graduated from New London High School in 1970, and from the New Hampshire Manpower Training Center for Automechanics in 1972.  Ernie had been employed by Sturm Ruger for 20 years and for the last 20 years had worked for Pike Industries.

He served in the US Army and was discharged in 1978, earning the National Defense Medal, the Expeditionary Medal, and the Sharpshooter Badge.  Ernie collected Corvettes and enjoyed car racing and working on his computer.  He made many friends wherever he went and enjoyed visiting at the Barn Store in Salisbury and the Blackwater Restaurant in Andover.  He wasn’t a pet owner but loved animals.

He is predeceased by his parents; a brother, Donald; a sister, Margaret Jewell; a brother-in law, David Romanoff; and a nephew, Kevin Romanoff.  He is survived by a sister, Marion Romanoff of New London, and nieces and nephews Robin, Russell, Lance, Brenda, and Tammy.

A graveside service will be held on Sunday, August 28, 2022, at 2 PM in the Old Main Street Cemetery, New London.  All are welcome to attend.

Memorial contributions may be made to Pope Memorial SPCA, 94 Silk Farm Road,
Concord NH  03301.

Arrangements are being handled by Chadwick Funeral Service of New London.