Lake Erie College Athletics Hall of Fame
Lorraine Sterkel Blaylock graduated from Lake Erie College in 1942 with a major in sociology.
She was a member of the Photography Club during her freshman year; in her sophomore year she participated in the Civil Pilot Training Program, was a member of the Science and Aviation clubs, worked on the circulation staff of the Lantern, was a class representative to the athletic board, and earned honors in varsity hockey, serving as forward.
During her third year, she continued participation in the Science and Aviation clubs, served as a class vice president, and won honors in both varsity hockey and basketball. As a senior, Lorraine was business manager of the Athletic Association, repeated varsity honors in hockey, and continued involvement in the Science Club.
Lorraine was also an active participant in modern dance, was captain of the swim team and was very active in track and field, earning honors in the annual Sports Day events.
As one of the first students to earn her pilot's license under the Lake Erie aviation program, she served in the U.S. Air Force as a Women's Air Force Service (WASP) pilot in World War II, during which time she earned both land and seaplane ratings. Lorraine also earned an engine license from the U.S. Army Air Corps. She was an active American Red Cross volunteer and regularly helped others who were in need. While still in college, she served as the only female lifeguard at the Euclid Park Pool.
A faithful alumna, Lorraine attended all of her class reunions. She and her husband, Bill, raised six children. World travelers, Lorraine and her husband circled the globe five times, visiting over 100 countries. The couple completed a six-moth freighter trip around the world in 1973. They also enjoyed golf and tennis. She called her recollections of LEC "great and happy years"
Lorraine passed away April 27, 1995. The Lake Erie College Hall of Fame Committee recognizes all of the accomplishments of Lorraine Sterkel Blaylock with her posthumous induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame on April 24, 1996.
