Our Staff

Jake Blonquist - Owner and Pet Funeral Director

Hi everyone,

I’m Jake Blonquist, the proud owner of Pet Passages here in Lake Orion. While I may not have been born and raised in Michigan, I believe life’s journeys shape who we are, and mine has led me here to serve this wonderful community and your beloved pets.

From Utah Peaks to Lake Orion Charm:

I was blessed to grow up in Springville, Utah. My parents own and operate Art City Music Academy, and as such I grew up practicing, performing and teaching music through the piano. I learned great lessons of hard work and customer satisfaction through being involved in my parents business and am so grateful to them for that experience.

Growing up in Utah, I was surrounded by the majesty of the mountains and instilled with a deep love for nature. This love for living things carried over to the animals in my life, especially my mischievous yet cuddly cats, Salem and Romeo. They’ve been my companions through thick and thin for the past few years, reminding me of the unconditional love and joy our furry friends bring.

A Foundation for Compassion:

After graduating with a degree in Business from Brigham Young University, and working for almost three years in the tech industry, I knew I wanted to pursue a career that aligned with my values. When the opportunity arose to bring Pet Passages’ mission of honoring our furry companions in Lake Orion, I knew this was the perfect path for me.

Honoring Every Paw Print:

At Pet Passages, we understand that pets are more than just animals; they’re cherished members of the family. Our mission is to guide you through this difficult time with compassion, understanding, and respect, offering dignified and personalized services to celebrate your pet’s life and memory.

Sharing the Journey:

Whether you’re a lifelong resident of Lake Orion or the surrounding communities, or (like me) you’ve recently joined our community, I invite you to reach out and connect. Our team is here to answer your questions, offer support, and help you navigate this sensitive time. I am also pleased to be here with my amazing wife and partner Brooke who you will likely see in and out of our facility!

Together, we can honor the memory of our beloved pets and ensure their final passage is one of love and dignity.

Autumn Rivera - Pet Care Coordinator

Hi, I’m Autumn!

I got married in 2022 and am a mom to a little girl and bonus mom to an amazing boy. Outside of work, I enjoy reading, painting, Entomology and bike riding with my dog, Jessie.