Blake Oliver Cowden
Born in Modesto, CA on March 27, 1995, Blake passed away at the age of 24 in Bloomington, IL. His life left a huge impact on his family and his community. The foundation established in his memory will continue to carry on that impact.
“The thing about Blake is the character he brings and the leadership. It’s his ability to touch people where they’re at and bring others around him and make them better.”
Blake was a 2013 graduate of Tri-Valley High School in Illinois. He was a two sport all-state athlete in both football and basketball, voted captain in both sports, and selected as the 2013 Pantagraph Male Athlete of the Year. Blake was not only a gifted athlete, but demonstrated a tremendous ability to lead others, both on and off the field/court.
“Any time he can give back to the community or younger kids, he loves doing that. He understands the responsibility and the role that comes with the territory he has gotten into.”
Blake was a 2017 graduate of Illinois State University, where he earned a B.S. in Finance, Insurance and Law and served in a leadership position for Sigma Chi Fraternity. Upon graduation, Blake was employed by John Caywood State Farm Insurance where he was recognized as a top producer, influencer and strategic thinker.
“Life is not easy, but it's something you want to enjoy and something you want to cherish. That's something he would always remind us of. That's one of my favorite things about Blake.”
Blake was an excellent communicator, goal driven and possessed a work ethic second to none. Just prior to his death, at age 24, he had been selected by State Farm Insurance to be a State Farm Agent and realize his dream of owning his own business and leading his own sales team.
He was an avid golfer and sports enthusiast, especially the San Francisco 49’ers. But his greatest love was his family.
“...there's only a few kids you come across who have that 'it' factor that can't be taught. Blake had that. He had that factor you can't really explain, but you know he's got it.”
Blake was passionate about his family and friends. He loved spending time with people, learning about their passions and goals and helping them achieve them. He was supportive, yet pushed himself, and others, to be their best. He had an infectious smile and laugh, and a terrific sense of humor.
He loved his family and friends, so we created a section just for you...his family and friends.