David Drake, 83, of Presque Isle, WI sadly passed away suddenly on August 12, 2023. He was born in Chicago Illinois September 2, 1939 to adoptive parents Richard and Virginia Drake.

They moved to Highland Park Illinois when he was two years old. His sister Carol (deceased) was born 4 years later.

David graduated with a degree in Agriculture from Iowa State University. He was a varsity swimmer for 4 years at Iowa State while he attended. He married his high school sweetheart Missy, in 1960 and the couple moved to Wheat Ridge CO. After another move to Omaha NE, the couple finally settled in Lake Forest Illinois. They had three children, Sherry (John) Murrens, Wendy (Brent) Aufdembrink and David Tipton Drake; and 7 grandchildren, Eric (Jenny) Aufdembrink, Ethan (Lucia) Aufdembrink, Lauren (Alex) Mundstock, Maggie Murrens, Max Miller, Peter Murrens, Rachel (Jake) Stark; and 2 great grandchildren, Quinn Aufdembrink, Maddox Aufdembrink.

His career in advertising with both Leo Burnett and DDBNeedham brought him great success and happiness. He was active as a deacon in the Presbyterian Church of Highland Park, Illinois and then as an elder.

After retiring to the Northwoods of Wi he found daily pleasure walking the trails, biking, and x country skiing. He joined the Northwoods Ski Touring Association (NSTA) and spent many wonderful years enjoying the camaraderie of the group.

His handyman obsession kept him very busy, chopping wood, keeping the property up and fixing anything that was broken.

He and Missy loved to travel with friends which took them all over the United States and to many countries around the world. In recent years, they enjoyed Sunday night family dinners with his in-laws Jim and Sue Fragassi.

His grandchildren, great grandchildren and their dogs were his delight! He loved watching them all enjoy the many pleasures and treasures the Northwoods has to offer. He loved his dogs and every dog owned by children and grandchildren. They were always welcome in his home and heart.

He treasured his wife of 63 years and together they spent many years on their lake in the woods of Presque Isle watching their children and grandchildren grow up while all the dogs ran free and perfected their swimming skills.

It was the best life ever!

A private family service will be held at a later date.