Blake Manning, 30, of Thetford Center, VT, died Monday, August 9, 2021 in an automobile accident in Stockbridge, VT.

Blake was born August 16, 1990 in Lebanon, NH, a son of Bernard Manning and Roberta Knight. He graduated from Rivendell Academy and HACTC, Class of 2009. Blake easily learned new skills and had many jobs over the years including skidder operator for Greg Manning, Brett Lewis, and Kris Haupt. He worked with Hank Sweet horse logging, Gladstone Farms, Log Pro Log Yard, maintenance at Kendal at Hanover, mason tender for Quinn Benjamin, and painting for a local contractor. Blake was currently working as a carpenter for Frank Hewitt of West Woodstock.

At a young age, Blake fell in love with trucks, big and small, skidders, excavators, and heavy equipment of all kinds. Blake was the most happy when he was running equipment. He liked to stay busy.

Blake was very outgoing and quick to strike up a conversation and make friends. He was fun loving, kind, and a caring soul who loved his family and friends. He was good with children. He was always quick with a smile and to help a friend in need anytime he could . Blake enjoyed the outdoors, building bonfires, grilling a "juicy" steak on an open fire, and off road mudding.

He was predeceased by his paternal grandparents Arvin and Joyce Manning, maternal grandparents Howard and Minnie Knight, uncles Gerald Manning, Don Eric Manning, and John Manning.

Blake is survived by his father, Bernard Manning of Fanning Springs, FL; his mother, Roberta Knight of Fairlee, VT; a brother, Curtis Manning of Fairlee; uncles Gregory Manning, Alford "Bum" Manning, Wayde Blandin, & David Jenks; aunts, Marlene Jenks, Sheila Blandin, and Nancy Manning as well as many cousins and other extended family.

Blake will be laid to rest on August 21, 2021 at 2PM in the Evergreen Rest Cemetery in Thetford Center, VT with a gathering after in the lower field behind the Manning House at 4931 VT Rte. 113, Thetford Ctr., VT until 5:30. Bring a dish to share if you like and any photos for the picture board if you might like to share.

Condolences may be expressed in an online guestbook found at knightfuneralhomes.com .