A small socially distanced crowd assembled on Friday evening to celebrate the community service of C. Robert Blake, who founded Blake Pharmacy on the Square 60 years ago next month. Blake was joined by two of his three children and three of his five grandchildren for the special occasion.
For Blake, the pharmacy has always been a family affair. All of Bob and Eilene Blake’s children went on to become Registered Pharmacists as is one of his grandchildren, Kathryn. The rest of the granddaughters either play an active part in the family business currently or have in the past. Blake said during the brief ceremony that he appreciated his family in keeping the tradition of service alive to Adams County, as the pharmacy now involves three generations.
“We’ve always been part of the Square in West Union, and I appreciate the community using our pharmacy for all of these years,” said Blake.
Councilman Jason M. Francis introduced Blake who then unveiled the new street sign prepared by village officials. The sign is unique – it is the only sign in the village that is red and white, a tribute for the love Bob has for the Cincinnati Reds. Blake has attended every opening day game for over half a century.
“We appreciate the service of Bob to our village. Whether as a former Mayor or community leader, he has always worked to give back and be generous to our village,” said Francis. Francis went on to thank Donna Young, who recommended the idea to Council before she was a member of the body. “At a meeting, Donna said that we should try and honor people while they are living rather than waiting until they are no longer with us,” said Francis. “She then recommended that a street be renamed after Mr. Blake. It was an honor for me to make the motion and Council quickly concurred.”
“I also want to thank our street department for the work they did on the sign. They work tremendously hard all year around, and I want to let them know that the people of West Union appreciate their service,” said Francis. Francis was joined by Councilwoman Donna Young and Councilman John R. Lafferty along with County Commissioner Ty Pell at the event.
On January 1st, 2021, Blake Pharmacy will celebrate its 60th anniversary.
