Blake Ian Beard Sr.

Blake Ian Beard, Sr., 68 of Summer Shade, KY and formerly of Indianapolis, IN, passed away on Wednesday, December 21, 2022.  He was born on January 14, 1954 in Cincinnati Ohio to the late William C. Beard and Florence (Jo) Voyce Beard. He was married to Christine McLaughlin.

Blake attended Broad Ripple High School, graduating in 1972, and went on to study Heating and Cooling at Ivy Tech. Blake expanded on his formal heating and cooling training by applying his extensive plumbing work experience, passing the State required practical and written testing, to become a licensed Plumber. He went on to apply his craft for many years as an independent contractor. Blake will always be remembered as a kind man, often providing plumbing advice and services free of charge.

Blakes marriage to Christine blessed him with a blended Family. He was the Beard Family favorite uncle, always teasing the grandchildren as he did with his two sisters.  Blake had an uncanny ability to remember the dates and names of songs from the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s.  If you wanted to know, just ask Blake.

Blake was an avid history buff especially focusing on World War II. He so enjoyed listening to his father and mother’s stories of first-hand experience during the war. Blake also took great pride in his collection and restoration of military vehicles of this era. Focusing and meticulously restoring troop transport and supply line trucks.

Blake is survived by his wife of 31 years, Christine Beard; Blake Jr. (Becca), and Emily Gunselman(Andy) in addition to 2 stepchildren,  Michelle Rich (George) and Jamie Powell (Sean) with a special grandchild that he and Chris raised as their own, Mara Edwards (John).  He is survived by 5 grandchildren; Taylor Bartow, Savannah Ward, Zane Powell and Claire Gunselman.  He has 5 siblings William (Bill) Beard (Pam), Craig Beard (Roseann) Pam Caito (Tony) Scott Beard (Wendy) and Lynne Shepard.  After fostering 11 dogs (he kept them all) his living pets are Maggie, Freya, Bella (dogs) and 2 donkeys named Jack and Rose.

Blake was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Jo Beard.

He will be missed dearly.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 28, 2022, from 4-7pm at Flanner Buchanan – Broad Ripple.  Funeral services will take place Thursday, December 29, 2022 at 11am, also at the funeral home.  Entombment will follow the services in Crown Hill Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a local no-kill shelter in Blake’s honor.