Michael James Blade

Michael James Blade, age 77, of Erie, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at Bowling Green Manor. He was born on October 4, 1948, in Toledo, Ohio, to Mary Frances (Bisonette) Amer.

Mike was a proud Vietnam veteran who served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Robert L. Wilson. He was a Tool and Die maker by trade retiring in 2008. Mike graduated from Clay High School in Oregon, Ohio, in 1967.

Mike was truly the life of the party—always happy to offer a cocktail to anyone around. He was the first to arrive and the last to leave. Generous to his core, Mike never hesitated to help someone in need, whether it meant lending a hand, a few dollars, or even a couch to sleep on. He loved music and attending concerts with his sisters and his cousin Dave. One of his greatest joys was indulging his grandchildren, sneaking them ice from his cocktail, frosting sandwiches, and Lifesavers—often against their parents’ wishes. Wherever he may be today, he is no doubt dressed in a Genesis concert T‑shirt, cut‑off jeans, and long hair, proudly reflecting his lifelong hippie style.

Mike is survived by his daughter, Melanie Cope (Jon Smith), and his son, Michael T. Blade; his grandchildren, Amber (Tyler), Christopher Jr. (Madison), Jacob Allen, Michael, Jacob Frances, Caleb, Emily, Abigail, Logan, Morgen, Regan, and Brenna; and his great‑grandchildren, Landon, Theodore, Remington, and one on the way. He is also survived by his sisters, Patricia (Ron) Shenofsky, Janet Slates, and Mary Jean Amer (Rick McLaughlin); his favorite cousin, Dave (Rudi) Amer; and his daughter‑in‑law, Natalie Solomon and a small but amazing group of nieces and nephews fondly known within the family as “the cousins.”

He was preceded in death by his mother, and his son, Christopher Charles Blade.

Melanie and Michael would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Gina Smith for her love and compassionate care of Mike during his final years.

At Mike’s request, the family will gather at a later date to be announced to celebrate his life in true Blade fashion.

Memorial Contributions can be made to Hospice of Northwest Ohio. 

Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home in Wauseon is honored to serve the Blade Family.

To leave a special message for Mike’s family please visit www.grisierfh.com and

click on the “Tribute Wall.”

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