BIRTHPLACE: Ashland, Wis.

BORN: August 16, 1916

DIED: November 26, 2008

TEAMS/ASSOCIATIONS: Hibbing High School, Boston Bruins Minneapolis Millers, Cleveland Barons, Buffalo Bisons, Houston Huskies, Cincinnati Mohawks, Pittsburgh Hornets

After starring as a three-sport star at Hibbing High School in Minnesota, Bob Blake's professional career began in 1933 at the age of 17 when he joined the hometown Miners of the Central Hockey League.  After moving into the top 10 in league scoring, Boston Bruin scout Perk Galbraith signed him to a contract with the Bruin's farm club, the Boston Cubs, where Blake led the team to a pair of league titles in as many seasons before joining the Minneapolis Millers in 1937.

The Cleveland Barons bought the speedy winger's contract during the 1938 season, and he responded by leading the club to the International-American League title in 1939.

The 1941 season began what was to become a long love affair between Blake and the city of Buffalo.  That's when he came to the American A League Bisons after the start of the season.  Injuries depleted the defensive corps and he was switched to defense with great success.  Blake's speed, durability, and aggressive play made him a great fan favorite.  He was selected Buffalo's most popular player in 1942 and captained the team that season and the following when they won the championship. 

After two years off for World War II service in the Pacific with the Army Air Corps, Blake rejoined Buffalo for another championship year late in the 1946 season.  Blake was a Bison star for two more seasons before moving to Houston for the 1948 season.  His steady play that year helped the team win the United States Hockey League's Loudan Trophy.  Many critics rated him the best defenseman in the league.