A former Grey Power magazine editor, Mike Blake died peacefully on July 29 with family at his side, after a brief illness. He was 77 years old.
Best friend and soulmate of Eileen for 55 happy years, he was also the loved father and father-in-law of Chris and Ashley, and Jonathan and Sonia and grandfather (Pop) to Zoe and Adele.
As a journalist Mike began his career with the Waikato Times and moved through the print ranks to edit newspapers and magazines in New Zealand including 10 years as editor of the Sunday News as well as stints on The Fiji Times and the Fiji Sun.
On his return to Hamilton in the early 2000s he became editor of Waikato Business News and several other titles. Then owner, and Mike’s nephew, Alan Neben, described him as, “a true professional who you could always rely on to tell the story straight.”
As editor of the national Grey Power magazine for many years, he was instrumental in transforming this publication into what it is today.
Mike also spent more than 10 years on the Waikato Chamber of Commerce board, about five of those as president of the organisation. When he retired, he was rewarded with life membership for his commitment.
Once ‘properly’ retired, he and Eileen took up residence at the Tamahere Country Club on the border of Hamilton.
Good friend, and a former Grey Power national president, Terry King paid tribute to Mike saying: “Mike never hesitated to challenge anyone, regardless of their position, if he thought their approach to issues warranted a strong response.
“He was trustworthy, could maintain confidentiality of information and its origin, was well read and gathered information from a wide variety of sources.”
Terry commended Mike as professional who was helpful in every situation. “While making his mark on the Grey Power magazine, he was at his best when attending a federation AGM, cheerfully circulating amongst delegates, taking photos, relaxing with board members and, at all times, appreciating the aims of Grey Power as an organisation.”
Miles Jackson, former chair of the federation’s communication committee says during Mike’s time as the magazine’s editor, he maintained the high standard set by others, and produced a quality product displaying Grey Power content effectively and in its most readable form.
“He had the skills and vision to produce a people-oriented publication reflecting the issues which affected the lives of its readers and the activities which illustrated the skills and enthusiasms of the elderly. [He included], a blend of opinion of the elected board and portfolio holders plus lively, interesting and readable articles.”
The Federation sends its deepest condolences to Eileen and family.
