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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
BLAKE, Douglas F. - His family have reported the sad news that Douglas F Blake (Doug) passed away in 13th June 2023 after a short illness. He was 91 and had settled in Ladysmith, Vancouver Island after his retirement. They asked that this news be sent out to our community.
Doug joined HMS Raleigh in June 1952 and a couple of years later transferred to the direct entry Engine Room Artificer branch. He joined submarines in January 1957 and served on Anchorite, Spiteful, Orpheus and Olympus as a rating.
Throughout his career his reports emphasised his engineering skills and problem solving abilities. These qualities were put to the test in April 1968 when both main engines in Olympus suffered large end bearing failures in mid Atlantic. Doug was highly commended for his knowledge and leadership in organising the work needed to adapt both V16 engines to run on 14 cylinders. No mean feat in rolling seas with no power. The story of this episode was used in an RN Officers recruiting advert.
In September 1969 he was promoted to Sub Lieutenant (MESM) on the Temporary Special Duties Officer's list and was appointed back to Olympus. This time as MEO. He served with distinction until his retirement from the RN in November 1980 with the rank of Lieutenant.
Doug joined the Canadian Armed Forces in June 1981 and retired in May 1986 as a Lieutenant Commander, after which he had a successful career in the Canadian shipbuilding industry. A very competent engineer and a much loved character.
His son, Colin Blake can be contacted at: cbhelimech@shaw.ca if anyone would like to send condolences or share memories.
Ships served in: HMS RALEIGH - Enlisted 1952 HMS THERMOPELAYE (1953-54) HMS ANCHORITE (1955-57) HMS SPITEFUL (1957-59) HMS ORPHEUS (1959-62) HMS DOLPHIN (July 1967) HMS OLYMPUS (1971-74 as CERA) HMS DOLPHIN (1971 NL) as Lt. MSEM HMS OLYMPUS (as Lt MEO 1972 & 1973 NL) HMS NEPTUNE (1974 to 1976 NL) as Lt MSEM HMS DOLPHIE (1977 to 1980 NL) as Lt MSEM C.A.F. (Navy) - Served in the C.A.F. June 1981 - May 1986, retiring as a LCdr
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