On the afternoon of April 30th, surrounded by the people he loved most, the world lost a giant in John "Mike" Lake.

Surviving are his cherished wife of 34 years, Marcy, their six children; Dylan (Amanda), Derrick, Jessica (Mike), Allison, CJ (Jon) and Gracie; nine grandchildren; Caroline, Cassidy, Haley, Allen, Andrew, Laken, Carter, Bryant and Kyler; two sisters, Kathryn "Kathy" Matthews and Barbara Jean Lake; four nieces and nephews and endless other people who loved him. Also surviving within his loved ones are his endless wit, unmatched zeal for the life he lived and steadfast love and devotion to his family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Ralph and Henrietta Lake and a beloved nephew, Lance, who died in 1998.

Born in Richland County, Mike was a proud Saluda Tiger and could often be found at sporting events, cheering on each of his children in their athletic endeavors. Alongside his father and sons, Mike was proud to operate Lake's Service Station in Saluda where he met and made a mark on countless members of his community that he loved so much. His memory is a blessing to all who knew him on earth and, in his own words, he was "a little rough around the edges but his love for God, his family and his friends was rock solid."

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 6 at Freedom Baptist Church located at 2028 Mt. Bethel Garmany Road in Newberry, South Carolina with the Reverend Eddie Bledsoe, his brother-in-law officiating.

The family will receive friends immediately following the service at Freedom Baptist Church.

Memorials in his honor can be made to the National Kidney Foundation or Freedom Baptist Church."