Westport EMS Crew Chief Mark Blake Dies

WESTPORT, CT — Mark Blake, a crew chief for Westport Emergency Medical Services, died on Tuesday at the age of 61, according to officials.

Crew Chief Blake was hired by the town in May 1990, and "had a long and rewarding career serving the Westport community," officials said.

In addition to his work with Westport EMS, Blake was also a representative for the Southwest EMS Council for than 10 years and was most recently the organization's president. He was also a certified child safety seat instructor and helped organize numerous car safety seat clinics throughout Fairfield County.

"Mark was an incredibly dedicated public servant as well as a widely respected EMT and he never hesitated to put the needs of others above his own," said Deputy Police Chief Sam Arciola, who oversees Westport EMS, in a statement.

Added First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker, "I was saddened to hear of the passing of Crew Chief Blake. On behalf of the Town, I want to extend my condolences to his friends and family as well as express how appreciative the town is for all his years helping our community."

In addition to dutifully serving Westport, Blake was also a volunteer with Weston's fire department and emergency medical services for more than 30 years. During his tenure, he served as the department's vice president and obtained the rank of lieutenant. Even in his off time, he wanted to serve, according to officials.

"Those who knew Crew Chief Blake quickly realized that his passion was to help anyway he could. Whether it be organizing a child safety seat clinic, treating a sick patient, or helping at the scene of a fire in Weston, Crew Chief Blake was there," officials said. "His dedication and passion will most certainly be missed."

A wake is scheduled for 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday at Harding Funeral Home, 210 Post Road East in Westport.

Services for Crew Chief Blake will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday at St. Matthew Church, 216 Scribner Ave. in Norwalk; a graveside service will be held at 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday at Willowbrook Cemetery, 395 Main St. in Westport.

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