Donald “Danny” Blaze, 94, of Vero Beach, died Monday, Nov. 2, 2009 at the Isles of Vero Beach.Mr. Blaze was born Aug. 16, 1915 in DeKalb, Ill. and moved to Florida 30 years ago from Illinois. After graduating from high school he went to St. Viator College and tried out for some NFL teams, but was told he was too small. He served in the Navy for two years during WW II. He taught and coached football, basketball, baseball and golf at Evanston (Ill.) High School for 32 years.After moving to Florida 30 years ago, he joined Dodger Pines Country Club, where he was a member for 24 years. He was Club Champion several times (4 handicap). For awhile he played golf in Florida on the Senior Tour and also rated courses in this area for the PGA.He was a member of “The Back Porch Gang” which started at Dodger Pines on the back porch. He met with his old golf friends twice a week.Survivors include his wife, Helen of Vero Beach; daughters Kathryn Freiburger of Columbus, Ohio and Barbara Kelley of Littleton, Colo.; son Bill Blaze of Cohasset, Mass.; and seven grandchildren. Services will be held at a later date.Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are under the direction of Cox-Gifford-Seawinds Funeral Home and Crematory, Vero Beach. Condolences may be sent through www.seawindsfh.com/obit.php
