Lee R. Drake, 787, passed away on April 28, 2012 in his home with his family by his side. He was born February 26, 1934 in Newton, West Virginia to Okey and Bessie Drake. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1952 at the age of 17. On February 26, 1956 he married Shirley Porter Drake. She preceded him in death August 23, 2006.
He served 10 years active duty in Korea, earning a purple heart. He also spent time in Stuttgart, Germany. He was then stationed at Ft. Hood in Texas for many years. After having five children, he moved to Kansas. At that time he enlisted in the National Guard until eventually retiring after a combined total of 23 years of service.
He worked many jobs to provide for his family until eventually retiring from Hay and Forage in Hesston. He was a member of the VFW; American Legion and Fraternal Order of the Eagles. After his wife's passing in 2006 he moved in with his daughter and son-in-law, Darlene and Dwayne. He enjoyed many outdoor activities as gardening, bird watching and fishing..
Survivors: Son, Kennethh (Jeanne) Drake; four daughters, Darlene (Dwayne) Herman; Sandy )Steve) Abrahams, all of Newton; Janet (Robert) Kirk, Meriden; Karen (Richard) Lankton of Claremore, Oklahoma; 10 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren and two sisters. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters and his wife and one grandson.
