Johnny Blake

Johnny Leon Blake died on Wednesday, January 3, 2024 in Wichita at the age of 79. He was born October 29, 1944 in Wellington to Oscar and Viola (Hain) Blake; however, he was primarily raised by his loving grandmother, Mary Hency. On June 9, 1963, Johnny and Sheryl Nugen were united in marriage in Wellington and celebrated 60 years together. A reliable and talented man, Johnny treasured the many roles he held in life: a skilled machinist, an innovative business owner, a devoted husband and a loving father. 

Johnny’s journey as an aircraft machinist began at the local aircraft companies in Wellington, KS, and led him to a successful career as the owner of Pro Mill from 1975 to 2003. His entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop there. Johnny, along with his “bouncer” wife, Sheryl, decided they needed an evening job by opening the After Hours Nightclub, which they operated for 14 years.

His talents, however, extended far beyond the workplace. A creative soul, Johnny loved spending his free time creating stained glass pieces, woodworking, and assembling difficult puzzles. An avid sports fan, Johnny never missed a NASCAR race or a Kansas City Chiefs game. He also cherished fishing trips, regardless of whether the fish were biting or not. Johnny’s loving nature was most evident to his treasured family that he now leaves behind. 

Survivors include his wife, Sheryl Blake of Wellington; daughter, Donice Smock and husband Mike of Caldwell; son, Scott Blake and wife Teresa of Milan; grandchildren: Sara Townsend (Clint), Jessica Morrow (Danny), Jacob Smock (Amanda), Kacie Wohlgemuth (Andy) and Keela Delain (Josh) along with his great grandchildren: Hannah and Amelia Townsend, Jaden and Aubrey Morrow, Adallyn and Anson Smock, Hadley and Lucas Wohlgemuth, and Kyler, Kohlter, Kellen and Kodi Delain. He is also survived by his sisters: Janice (Don), Naomi, Debbie (Hal), Linda, Shirley, Patty (Lee), Wendy (Brian) along with a large and loving extended family. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandmothers; sister, Joyce Sullivan and brother, Tom Robinson. 

A celebration remembering the life of Johnny Blake will be held at 11:00, Friday, January 12, 2024 in the First Christian Church, Wellington. A private interment will be held at Sumner Memorial Gardens, Wellington. 

Memorial contributions can be given in his name and loving memory to the Wellington Humane Society or the American Cancer Society. Contributions can be mailed or left with the funeral home. 

Share a memory, leave condolences or sign his digital tribute wall at www.cornejofuneralhome.com. 

Arrangements by Cornejo Funeral Home + Crematory, 1030 Mission Road, Wellington.