Alan Hugh "AB" Blake, 56, of Dunbar, passed away at his residence Tuesday, January 29, 2013.

He was born June 22, 1956, in Charleston to the late Averill H. Blake and Melvina J. (Lovejoy) Blake.

He is survived by his daughters, Brea M. Blake of South Charleston and Nakia A. Cole of Texas; sister, Mary J. Blake Hill of Dunbar; grandson, Brendon M. Blake of South Charleston; nephews, Dylan Ward of Dunbar, Dakota Ward of Dunbar, niece, Marissa Hill of Dunbar; cousins, Ron Rowley and his wife, Linda and sons, Kent and Kevin of Dunbar, Tara (Lovejoy) McClure of Rock Branch and son Derek McClure.

Alan was previously employed at Snyder of Berlin Distributing, Charleston Door, Inc., Liggett & Myers Tobacco Co., and Tom's Food Mart, but was most well known as the co-owner of the famous A&R Market formerly located at the corner of Payne Avenue and 16th Street in Dunbar.

Alan was a smart man who earned a Bachelors Degree in Accounting from West Virginia State College with a minor in Management in 1979. While attending Dunbar High School, from 1971-74, Alan was known for his good looks and commendable basketball skills. Alan always donned a smile, enjoyed having a good time and was a great friend to all who knew him. He will be greatly missed by his close family and friends.

All are invited to attend a celebration of Alan's life which will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, February 2, at Keller Funeral Home, located at 1236 Myers Avenue, Dunbar, with Pastor David Keeney officiating.

The family would like to express deep appreciation to the Dunbar Police Dept., Kanawha County Emergency Ambulance Authority and the WV DHHR.