Remembered by those who knew him as happy, intelligent and outgoing, Blake Ingles died in a car accident Nov. 28, 2007, less than a month before his 17th birthday.

To honor his memory, students and staff at the COM Collegiate High School planted a live oak on campus Aug. 21.
 
“He was in the Collegiate High School service club Nu Psi,” said Lodie Salazar. “He was a leader.”
 
After the accident, COM Collegiate High School students in the Nu Psi club raised the funds for the memorial plaque, and recently Steve’s Tree Farm in Santa Fe donated a live oak.
 
At the dedication of the tree were Blake’s parents, Don and Rachel, and sister, Elaina.
 
“He was so happy to be at the college and he loved it here,” said Rachel Ingles. “Because of Blake, his sister, who is now in her second year of Collegiate High School, knew she would one day attend the program, even when she was still in elementary school.
 
“The family of Blake are forever grateful to College of the Mainland not only for the educational opportunities and the wonderful environment but also for allowing a tree to be planted in memory of Blake.”