Brent Blake

Dear Friends and Family,

With heavy hearts but full spirits, we share the passing of our beloved Brent Richard Blake—son, brother, husband, father, friend, and legendary entertainer—who left us far too soon at the age of 55 on July 17, 2025, in Rochester, Minnesota with his wife Jodi and daughter Brooklyn by his side, after a 5 year courageous and inspiring battle with Glioblastoma.

Born on September 7, 1969, in Langdon, North Dakota, Brent was the life of every room he entered. He was a Christian baptized at the Presbyterian Church. From his early days in Hallock and Crookston, Minnesota, to his college years at River Falls and the University of North Dakota (Class of ’93—Go Fighting Sioux!), Brent lived with a spark that never dimmed. He proudly served in the National Guard and built a successful career as a Pharmaceutical Representative, but his true calling was bringing people together.

Brent was a sports fanatic with a heart of gold. Whether he was cheering on his favorite teams including the Kansas City Chiefs, Minnesota Twins and UND Hockey; coaching Girls’ Youth Hockey in Detroit Lakes, or hunting at the Shack in Lake Bronson, he did it all with passion and a grin. He was a master of collaborating with charities, raising funds through Dixon Golf and supporting children with cancer through Hope, Dreams, and Smiles at Kickin Up Kountry.

And oh, the parties! Brent was the mastermind behind three legendary “Blaker Open” Golf Tournaments and his annual WE FEST gatherings—where laughter, music, and friendship flowed as freely as the drinks. For those who attended, these weekends were truly memorable, highlighted by Brent's array of distinctive costumes.

In 2002, Brent built his dream home near Detroit Lakes, and in 2007, he married the love of his life, Jodi Grevious. Together, they raised a beautiful family, including his pride and joy, Brooklyn Kennedy, who now carries on his UND legacy.

Brent is survived by his loving wife, Jodi; his beloved daughter, Brooklyn (Detroit Lakes, MN); stepchildren Sydney Haman (Fargo, ND) and Grayson Haman (Fargo, ND); his parents, Percy and Colleen Blake (Grand Forks, ND); his siblings Jake (Nicole) Blake (Buffalo, MN); Kimberly (Jeff) Manuel (West Fargo, ND); his in-laws Jim and Shirley Borg (Bismarck, ND); brother in-law Todd (Laurie) Grevious (Brighton, CO); sister in-law Michelle (Michael) Luehring (Goodyear, AZ), and a whole crew of nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws who adored him. He also leaves behind countless friends who were more like family.

Brent didn’t just live—he lit up life. He made us laugh, made us dance, and made us feel like we belonged. So, let’s raise a glass, share a story, and keep his spirit alive in the way he would’ve wanted: with joy, music, and a whole lot of love.

Please join us for a Celebration of Brent’s Life on Friday, August 1st, 2025, at 4:00 pm at the First Lutheran Church in Detroit Lakes, with visitation starting at 3:00 pm.

In place of flowers, the family respectfully requests that contributions be directed to Brooklyn Blake’s college fund.