David Drake

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

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

David graduated with a degree in Agriculture from Iowa State University. He married his high school sweetheart Missy, in 1960 and the couple moved to Wheat Ridge, Colo. After another move to Omaha, Neb., the couple finally settled in Lake Forest Ill. They had three children, Sherry (John) Murrens, Wendy (Brent) Aufdembrink and David Tipton Drake; and seven grandchildren, Eric (Jenny) Aufdembrink, Ethan (Lucia) Aufdembrink, Lauren (Alex) Mundstock, Maggie Murrens, Max Miller, Peter Murrens, Rachel (Jake) Stark; and two 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, Ill. and then as an elder.

After retiring to the Northwoods of Wisconsin he found daily pleasure walking the trails, biking, and cross 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.

Online condolences may be shared at www.nimsgernfuneral.com. Nimsgern Funeral & Cremation Services is serving the family.