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Melville George Blaker
Celebration of Life

Alderville First Nation Community Centre
8913 Cty. Rd. 45, Roseneath, ON K0K 2X0,

Sunday, January 19, 2025
11:00 a.m.

This obituary is protected by copyright by MacCoubrey Funeral Home Limited. Proudly serving Northumberland County in the province of Ontario, Canada. All rights reserved.

Melville George Blaker

September 9, 1943 - January 9, 2025

It is with heavy hearts the family of Melville Blaker announce his passing on January 9, 2025. Predeceased by his parents Gordon and Olive Blaker and eldest brother Aubrey (Jane) Blaker. Mel will be greatly missed by his life long wife, partner Linda Manton of 41 years. He will be missed by his siblings Audrey Winn, Murray Blaker and Alda (Bob) Staples, also many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and cousins.

Mel and Linda have enjoyed living in Alderville First Nation and have participated in many community events. Mel will be greatly missed by his community of Alderville First Nation.

From a young age Mel had a great love for music. He played the trumpet in the Cobourg Kiltie Band for a few years along with other various bands. Mel also played piano. He loved entertaining, playing for private parties and dances throughout the years. He learned to play the drums and played for the Doney Del Fiddlers. He also played with The Potters, Berts Combo, Doney Del Fiddlers and many more over the years.

If desired, a donation in memory of Mel may be made to a charity of your choice.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday January 19th, at 11:00am at the Alderville Community Centre, 8913 County Road 45, Alderville First Nation.

Message Of Condolence

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MESSAGES OF CONDOLENCE / DONATIONS

Gord Burdick - January 29, 2025

Sincere condolences to Mel’s family. I worked with Mel at the hospital and we had so much fun. R.I.P. buddy !!

Jane and Dale Colbary - January 23, 2025

The Blaker Family So sorry for your loss. RIP 🙏

Brandy Robertson-Purdy - January 22, 2025

Back in the day, I worked with Mel for many years at the Cobourg Hospital. He was always happy and social. I did see him at work but wasn't sure he recognized me. Sending my condolences

Dorothy Way - January 22, 2025

Linda and the Blaker family. I am so sorry to hear of Mel's passing. He was such a wonderful person. I worked with Mel at the old Cobourg Hospital and remember how kind and caring he was with everyone he met. Someone wrote that the world would be so much better if there were more like him in it and it is true. I would run into Mel and Linda occasionally and Mel would always stop and talk about the old hospital days. My deepest condolences. Dorothy Way

Cindy Mcelrea - January 22, 2025

I remember working with Mel at the hospital. He was always so friendly and kind. He brought a smile to each day. May he rest in peace. Condolences to his family and friends.

Karen Thompson - January 21, 2025

Linda and Blaker family, so sorry to hear about Mel’s passing. We have nothing but good memories. The many times you and Mel came to our home for my annual volunteer b.b.q. for Horizons of Friendship, trumpet and keyboard, the dancing worried us about the strength of the deck! Also the Christmas luncheons at Horizons. Always a good time. Mel a gentle soul that touched all that had the privilege of knowing him.

Brian and Margaret Watkins - January 20, 2025 DONATION

A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:

Alderville Community Centre

Brianna Petersen - January 19, 2025

Mel was such a sweet man. When I used to work at the bank he’d often bring me coffee just out of pure kindness. He always loved sharing where his next show was going to be. He loved to talk about everything music. Sending my condolences to Linda and family xo

Pam Crowe - January 19, 2025

So very sorry to hear of Mel’s passing. Condolences to Linda and extended family, his smile and musical talent will be missed by many.

Patty manton - January 18, 2025

Sorry for your loss linda and the blaker family thoughts and prayers are sent to you and blaker families

Simon Haworth - January 17, 2025

My heartfelt condolences to Linda, and members of the Blaker family. Mel was without a doubt one of my very favourite persons. He was one of the first people my family met when we moved to Baltimore in the late 1960s (along with Gordon and Olive), and I had the honour to know him from that point forward. A kind and gracious soul who lit up everyone with his infectious smile. I loved watching Mel play the piano, and, in earlier years, his beloved trumpet. Mel was a natural entertainer who enjoyed sharing his gift of music. He was the first person to call me "Si". I shall miss you, my old friend. Thank you for touching my life.

Roslyn Smart - January 16, 2025

Linda and the Blaker Family: So sorry to hear this - I remember Mel from years ago, playing his trumpet and the piano at the Baltimore Church. Condolences. Roslyn Smart

Joan and Don Diminie and family - January 16, 2025

Linda and Blaker families: Sorry to learn of Mel passing on, a great friend. Having known Mel for many years, he will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you at this difficult time

Debbie Drummond Taylor - January 16, 2025

Linda, I am so sorry to hear of Mel's passing. It was such a pleasure to play music with him with the Donegal Fiddlers Orchestra or at private house parties. A beautiful soul is now spreading joy in another space.

Anne Burnham - January 15, 2025

I too have been blessed by experiencing Mel's joy of music. His joy was absolutely contagious. He will be missed. All the best to his family at this time.

Helen Lee from Harwood - January 15, 2025

Linda, So sorry to hear of Melxs passing. Ron and enjoyed dancing to his music many years ago. Didn't get a chance to speak to you at Lillian Isaac's funeral. My condolences and prayers for you and his family. Blessings. Helen j

Estelle Cortesis - January 15, 2025

My sincerest condolences to Linda,Alda and families. Mel’s beautiful spirit has left an indelible mark in the many hearts that he touched with his incredibly kind , gentle and talented soul. May you take comfort knowing he is loved by many. Play on Doc!

Ian Fraser - January 15, 2025

As a young drummer in the Cobourg Kiltie Band during Mel's time, I remember his enthusiasm and gift for playing. Natural, unbridled talent is a gift and it was a delight to watch Mel shared his gift with everyone whoever heard him play. Thanks Mel.

Laird and Karen Murray - January 15, 2025 DONATION

A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:

Northumberland Hills Hospital Foundation

Bob Robertson - January 14, 2025

So sad to hear of Mel’s death. He was a kind and gentle soul. I had the pleasure of jamming with him in the cafeteria of the old Cobourg hospital as we entertained the staff. His love of music was so apparent as he created beautiful music on his trumpet. Sorry for your loss Linda. Rest in peace Mel.

Joan Quigley - January 14, 2025

Thinking of Linda and Mel's family. Remembering fondly the many years working with Mel at the old hospital. Always time for a visit and a laugh. It was a pleasure to have known him.

Betty McIntosh - January 14, 2025

Dear Linda and Blaker Family – On behalf of the Bethlehem Walk Committee please accept our sincere condolences. Mel was true gentleman, a great community supporter who loved people and entertaining. It was always a pleasure listening to Mel play. He was a great supporter of the Bethlehem Walk over the years.

Cynthia Adams - January 14, 2025

So sorry for your loss Linda. He was a very kind and gentle soul.

Betty Smith - January 14, 2025

Remembering the fun times shared with Mel at the Cobourg General Hospital. My condolences to Linda and his family.

George & Marylou Taylor - January 14, 2025

So Sorry to Family and Friends for Your Loss.

Stephen Della Casa - January 14, 2025

Mel was kind, gentle, and uplifting, always bringing warmth and joy to those around him. Our family has fond memories of knowing him since the 1970s and sincerely appreciated his wonderful spirit. He will be greatly missed.

Joanne Manton - January 14, 2025

So sorry for your loss Linda and Blaker family He was a wonderful person and always had a smile on his face He will be greatly missed

Joan Chalovich - January 14, 2025

Sorry to learn of Mel's passing Linda. He was a long time friend of my husband George and they always loved to talk of early days growing up in Baltimore.

Steve McGowan - January 13, 2025

RIP My friend. We had a lot of laughs every time we saw each other at the old Cobourg hospital, talking music and telling some good stories. It was always a pleasure to call you my friend. My condolences to your family and friends on their loss of a great guy.

Carol Ann Heffernan - January 13, 2025

Alda and family, We are so very sorry to hear of Mel’s passing. He was a pretty happy go lucky guy! Our most sincere condolences to you all. Tom & Carol Ann

Jake Berga - January 13, 2025

So sorry to hear of Mel’s passing , he was a gentle gentleman.

Michelle Wright (Diminie) - January 13, 2025

Linda & Blaker Families, Sending condolences to you on the passing of Mel. Worked with him for years at the old Cobourg hospital. He always had a smile, big hello and many chats every time you saw him. A very kind man who will be missed by many

Ron Taylor - January 13, 2025

So sorry to hear of Mel’s passing. Mel was an all around great guy and musician.He will be missed by all who knew him. Rest in peace Doc.

Joyce Carpenter (Smoke) - January 13, 2025

Such very sad news to hear of Mels passing. Sending our deepest condolences to his wife and extended family. Mel loved his music. I can remember going to dances at old hall, him on Trumpet & Lorne on piano What an experience just to sit and listen to them together. I believe he got his musical background from his Dad Gordon, both amazing piano players. Mel you will be missed by everyone who was honoured to know you and call you a friend. Well friend, the Spirit World just got greatest music lover ever. Play on Mel. REST IN PEACE MY FRIEND. BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES LEFT FOR THOSE LEFT BEHIND.

Colin and Ruth Watson - January 13, 2025

Sincere condolences.

Barry Wood - January 13, 2025

So sorry to hear the Mel has passed away. He will be greatly missed by all at Vandermeer Toyota. Mel was always a pleasure to chat with. We had many laughs! Take Care my friend! Barry Wood

Allan Gourd - January 13, 2025

So sorry for your loss Allan gourd. ❤️😢

Brian Sinclair - January 13, 2025

I first met Mel at the family home where I used to deliver the Saturday Star. I was always invited in to chat and warm up. Later whenever I was hitchhiking back to Baltimore, Mel would always pick me up. I remember his yellow VW beetle. Always smiling and asking how my music studies were going. Years later at the Cobourg Legion we’d often say hello and chat. A great guy who will be missed.

wendy bowman - January 13, 2025

Sending our sincere condolences to Linda and the Blaker Family .Mel will be greatly missed by all his friends and community. He always brought joy and a smile to so many people. We will miss our chats with him at Tim Hortons. RIP Mel Wendy and Rick

Patsy (Currelly) Hand - January 13, 2025

To Linda and the Blaker family, please accept my condolences. I worked with Mel for many years and he was a lot of fun to be around. He was always cheerful and optimistic and so friendly and welcoming towards other staff and patients. Always willing to help, to share a story or to share positive encouragement. Rest In Peace Mel, you will be missed.

The Davis Family - January 13, 2025

Mel, our talks about sport greats at the Wed lunches and at Tim Horton’s always made my day. Thank you for acknowledging me and by your actions making me a better person. Linda, I am very sorry for your loss. Megwiich Keith Davis

Melissa Stephenson - January 13, 2025

So very sorry to hear of Mel's passing. What a kind soul. Always enjoyed hearing Mel play at different events. We, always enjoyed seeing him daily at the old Cobourg BK Take good care Mel and Melissa Stephenson

Ted Brown - January 12, 2025

My sincerest condolences goes out to Linda and the Blaker family. Those warm greeting Doc always gave will be missed by many. Mel was a great guy. Our thoughts are with you.

Bryan Marjoram - January 12, 2025

Dear Linda, Audrey, and the entire Blaker family, we have lost a musically gifted man who loved to entertain. I remember Mel sitting at the piano at Rosewood Estates playing some of the older favourite tunes for the residents. They thoroughly enjoyed his incredible talent as they sang along! His broad smile reflected the joy he was feeling. I am pleased he shared his musical prowess with so many people over the years. Melville George Blaker September 9, 1943 - January 9, 2025 - REST IN PEACE -

Ralph & Norma Stoffers - January 12, 2025

Dear Blaker family, so sorry for your loss. Mel had amazing talent and shared it with so many. Loved to watch and listen to him. Amazing man!!

John Stillwell - January 12, 2025

Condolences to Linda and the Blaker family. Ive known Mel since the early 70's always an upbeat person. He is probably playing the ivories right now. Rest in peace (DOC) You will be missed.

Mike and Carol McCurdy - January 12, 2025

Linda and Family we are sad to hear of Mel’s passing. Mel was always such a nice fellow

Bonnie Timlin - January 12, 2025

Linda, so sorry for your loss of MEL, he was a wonderful musician & husband . Take care!

Bonnie Timlin - January 12, 2025

Audrey, Murray, &. Alda ,Bob & families. So sorry for ur loss, Mel was one of a kind, very talented in the music world, he will be missed by many. Lots of great memories to keep! Take care! Bonnie.🙏🏻❤️

Stephanie Nielsen, Niagara Falls, ON - January 12, 2025

My deepest condolences to Linda and family on the loss of Mel. My late husband Bob and Mel go back a good many years. They were band members and good friends. My husband delighted in telling me so many stories of the memories he had of shared band gigs and experiences as teenagers and later on. A great talent and an oustanding human being - his ways shone!

Louise Fox - January 12, 2025

I knew Mel from CDH. He was so friendly. Always in a good mood. Condolences to his friends and family. He will be missed.

Debbie Atanasoff - January 12, 2025

Alda, Audrey & families so sorry for your loss Mel was a great musician I heard him play many times keep your memories close RIP Mel 🙏

Shirley (Clapperton) Montgomery - January 12, 2025

So sorry to hear of Mel’s passing Norm & I had many card games at the Blaker house in Baltimore He was an amazing guy Sincere condolences to all the family RIP Mel

Kathy Turnbull - January 12, 2025

I worked with Mel at the old hospital for many years. I don't think that I have ever met anyone so genuine and caring as Mel. It didn't matter if you were at the "top" or the "bottom" of the pay scale, he treated everyone with the same friendly and caring greeting! Your mood was instantly lifted after one of his smiles and salutations. My deepest sympathies to Linda and family on such a monumental loss. He will be missed.

Kim Goebel (Munn) - January 12, 2025

It is so heartbreaking to hear about Mel. We first met when he was working at the Cobourg Hospital. He always should such kindness and was always caring and sweet. I will miss our encounters and seeing his big smile whenever we met. My thoughts and prayers go out to Linda and Mel's whole family.

Veronica & Paul - January 12, 2025

Our condolences to Linda and the Blaker Family ~ a sad loss of a great man; Mel will be missed by many ❤️

Peter Washburn - January 12, 2025

My sincere condolences to the family, Mel played in our group on many occasions at the legions in the area. We all had a lot of fun back in those days. Thankful that I was a friend.

Cathy Stevenson Hoard - January 12, 2025

My sincere condolences to the Blaker families at this difficult time. I remember Mel as bing a kind and gentle music loving man. My prayers are with you all.

Jim & Linda J. MacDonald - January 12, 2025

So sorry to hear of Mel's passing. Always such a happy person spreading smiles where ever he went. He will be missed. Condolences to the Blaker family.

Mae Leguard - January 12, 2025

Dear Linda and families So sorry to hear about Mel's death I worked with him for many years and always enjoyed it My condolences Mae Leguard

Rita & Ian Sharp - January 12, 2025

So sorry to hear of Mel’s passing. He was a lovely man. Always had a smile on his face, and made you laugh. He used to love playing his instruments, and entertaining everyone. He will be sadly missed. RIP Mel

Wendy Scott - January 12, 2025

Dear Linda and family - sorry to hear this sad news. I knew Mel from our old Cobourg hospital days. He was always cheerful and friendly . And when we would see Linda and Mel out in the community he would stop and share a story and a laugh.

Candy Smoke - January 12, 2025

Sending my sincere condolences to the family of Mel Blaker. Always a smile and wave.

Bill and Carmel Scott - January 12, 2025

Rest peacefully, Mel. I have many fond memories from the old Cafe "B" days. Sincere condolences to the family.

Joan Blaind. - January 12, 2025

Dear Linda & family I am so sorry to hear of Mel's passing. I knew Mel while we worked at the old hospital.He made so many people happy, always laughing & joking with every one . He was loved by all staff .RIP Mel.

Brenda chamberlain - January 12, 2025

Sending my deepest condolences to Linda and Family at this difficult time RIP Mel

Pete Fisher - January 11, 2025

Amazing person inside and out. Always had a smile and a warm greeting for anyone. World would be a better place with more people like him.

Gail Hills - January 11, 2025

So sorry for your loss Linda and Blaker family Mel will be missed by so many who had the pleasure to have met him that got to listen to him play his wonderful music RIP Mel

Lisa Chatten Leckie - January 11, 2025

Rest in Peace Mel, had a lot of good times working together at the old Cobourg Hospital. I can still hear you and your daily greeting of Old Buddy, old pal old Friend of mine, when ever we met up. A lot of good laughs we shared. My thoughts are with you Linda and the rest of the Blaker family.

Bob and Helen McCracken - January 11, 2025

So sorry to hear about Mel’s passing, he was always such a friendly guy and I’m sure will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. R I P. Mel!

Donna and Donald Robins - January 11, 2025

Linda and the Blaker families. Mel was an offhand person that did not boast his musical talent was respected by many and loved by all. We spoke with Mel at the Cobourg Clinic 2 weeks ago Sorry for your loss.

Jimbob, Jane and Family - January 11, 2025

Our heartfelt condolences to Linda and the Blaker Family. Cuzzin Mel loved his community and attending all the events. He was a fine musician and I remember even in the city Mel would stop by with his horn and play tunes with dad and company. This tradition carried on with our own family reunions. R.I.P Mel

Donnie Patterson - January 11, 2025

Dear Linda, I am so sorry to hear if Mel's passing. We loved his performances at Baltimore United Church. He was a warm and giving person.

Jim and Jamie West - January 11, 2025

Linda and all of Mel's family our condolences on his passing.

Lynda Skitch Oliver - January 11, 2025

Dear Linda I’m so sorry to hear about Mel. He was such a breath of fresh air at the old hospital, always pleasant and good natured to both staff and patients. What joy he brought to those on 3rd floor when he played their favourite tunes on the piano during meal times. He will always be remembered with fondness. My sincere condolences to you and to his family….Lynda Oliver

Brenda and Neil Manley - January 11, 2025

Sorry to hear of Mel's passing. Linda, you will really miss him. We enjoyed his musical talent often. Neil and Brenda Manley

Bob and Helen Lloyd - January 11, 2025

Our sincere condolences to Linda and the Blaker family. Mel’s outgoing friendliness and musical talents will certainly be missed in the community .

Brenda Summers - January 11, 2025

My condolences to Linda and all the family. Mel was such a kind man with such a musical talent that he shared with so many. For many years he volunteered to entertain at local long term care homes where I worked. The day was always brighter on the days he and Linda came in. RIP Mel, thank you for all the great memories.

Geraldine Moon - January 11, 2025

Linda and Family: Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Mel. I always enjoyed our chats, reminiscing about High School days, and mutual friends. I will miss our friendly encounters. He was a lovely gentleman.

Kathy Moffit - January 11, 2025

Aunt Audrey, so very sorry to hear of the passing of your brother Mel. May your memories stay vibrant in your heart. Hugs

Jay Sherwin - January 11, 2025

To Linda and the Blaker family: Please accept my sympathies on the passing of Mel. He was a humble and gentle person with amazing musical talents that he gave so generously to the community. I can remember Mel once chording the piano with his left hand and at the same time the trumpet with his right hand and the drum and a cymbal with his feet. What a talent he had. I had the pleasure of performing with Mel with the Donegal Fiddlers and more recently with the Stonehill Fiddlers. I am honoured that we shared a friendship. Rest in peace Mel.

Marion Menheneott - January 11, 2025

I am so very sorry to hear of Mel's passing , he and my late husband Richard were friends. My condolences to his wife and all his family. Rest in peace Mel

Jane Whaley - January 11, 2025

I am so sorry for your loss Linda and all the family. Mel played in Dad’s band years ago and Dad always spoke highly of Mel and amazed at his talent

Therese & Barry May - January 11, 2025

Dear Linda, Audrey, Murray, Alda and family. Our deepest sympathy on the passing of such a gentle soul. We go back a long way and have lots of memories of times together. Always a smile, hug & chat usually at Tim Horton’s. Hugs to all. Barry & Therese(Guiry) May

Ron Smith - January 11, 2025

My condolences to the Blaker family. The music world has lost a real talent.

Ann-Margaret Doucette and Family - January 11, 2025

Our heartfelt and sincere condolences Linda, and all Mel’s family. We are heartbroken to hear of Mel’s passing, but know that heaven has gained the most incredibly talented entertainer joke, teller, happy, go lucky, sincere, heartfelt gentlemen thank you Mel, for being such a dear friend to our family and such an incredible human being thank you for all the entertaining you did in our community and all the help you gave to our community rest easy now my friend it is so well deserved with so much love and respect the all the Doucette family❤️

Cori Arthur - January 11, 2025

Such sad news. Mel and I had performed many times decades ago at the Blood Donor Clinic in Cobourg. He was just so much fun to be with. My deepest sympathies.

Merle Carmichael - January 11, 2025

Linda and FAMILY I talked to Mel a couple of weeks ago,, for the first time in many years. He was so happy with his farm, and family. I'm so sorry for your loss, he will definitely be missed