Donald L. Drake, age 83, of Wilton, passed away Thursday, June 12, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. A funeral service was held at 12 noon, Tuesday, June 17, at Parkview Church - Central Campus, Iowa City. A visitation was held from 10-11:45 a.m., prior to the service at the church. A graveside service was held at 3 p.m., Tuesday, June 17, in Oakdale Cemetery, Wilton. Memorials may be made to Parkview Church, Wilton First Responders, or the Wilton Athletic Boosters. Online condolences may be left at www.bentleyfuneralhome.com.
Don was born on April 14, 1942, the son of George and Annie (Plows) Drake in Red Oak. He graduated from Essex High School with the Class of 1960. After graduation, Don proudly served his country in the United States Army. He married Nancy Glasgo on June 29, 1963, in the First Presbyterian Church, Essex.
Don was the kind of grandfather every child dreams of - devoted, present, and endlessly proud. He rarely missed a grandchild’s sporting event and treasured time spent golfing and celebrating holidays with his family. His love for them was constant and unconditional.
Don began his working years at Essex Elevator as a grain hauler before rising to the role of regional manager at Jaydon Inc., where he served until 1989. He later joined Hy-Vee, where his strong work ethic and leadership guided him through roles as assistant manager, buyer manager for their distribution center, and finally as district supervisor, retiring in 2007.
In 2001, Don and his wife, Nancy, made their home in Wilton, where he was involved in the community. He was a devoted member of Parkview Church in Iowa City. Don was a local handyman for the school and community, dedicating countless hours to maintaining the city’s ball diamonds - ensuring the fields were always ready for the next generation of players.
Don will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Nancy; three sons, Michael (Barbara) Drake of Solon, Kevin (Shelley) Drake of Wilton, and Reggie (Melanie) Drake of Wilton; nine grandchildren, Ashley Drake, Valerie Drake, Dillon Drake, Emerson Drake, Ethan Drake, Javin (Kelsey) Drake, Kortney Drake, Kelsey Drake, and Kinsey Drake; two great-grandsons, Benjamin and Ayden; a brother, Gerry (Alice) Drake; two sisters, Pat Tillman and Sandra Correll; and one brother in-law, Dave Matheny.
Don was preceded in death by a brother, Jim Drake; two sisters, Mary Jo Waddle and Teri Sue Matheny; and two brothers in-law, Leland Tillman and Dan Correll.
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