Donald Earl Drake

Donald Earl Drake passed away on February 22, 2024, in Hastings, Michigan, at the age of 98. Donald was born on November 19, 1925, in Battle Creek, Michigan, to Howard and Helen Drakes.

A 1943 graduate of Hastings High School, Donald enjoyed a fulfilling career in agriculture. He was not only a lifelong farmer but also the proud owner of Farmers Feed Service for three decades.

Donald was a member of the Hastings Moose Lodge and the Lions Club of Bedford, where he contributed to numerous community projects and formed lasting friendships. He loved roller-skating and square dancing, and spending time with family. An avid outdoorsman, Donald enjoyed deer hunting, snowmobiling, and waterskiing. Donald never missed an opportunity to stay active and engaged, bowling three nights a week, and playing golf.  His love for travel took him on many adventures in his RV.  He relished his fishing trips to Canada and delighted in exploring the vast diversity of the United States, visiting places like the Dakotas, Hawaii, the East Coast, Texas, Missouri, and many other destinations, from the rugged landscapes of Alaska to the sunny shores of Aruba.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, wife Shirley, son Thomas Drake, and sisters Beverly Drake and Bonnie Jean Pierce. He is survived by his daughter Debora Drake, daughter-in-law Patricia Drake, grandchildren Dana Drake and Bryce Drake, great-grandchildren Charlotte Drake and Myles Drake, and nieces and nephews Brenda (Ken) Cole, Sally (Bruce) Dietel, Patty White, and John Pierce.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 S Broadway, Hastings, Michigan, with a visitation one hour prior. To leave an online condolence visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net.