James Drake

James G. (Jim) Drake of Elk Rapids, Michigan passed away April 17, 2019 at Munson Medical Center surrounded by his family. After a multitude of heart health issues and surgeries, Jim is finally at rest. Please hold him close, as we do, in your mind and your spirit. He leaves a quieter, emptier world, but Heaven will shine brighter. Jim was 78 years old.

Jim grew up in Comstock Park and graduated from high school in 1958, after which he attended Grand Rapids Junior College. His early career was in the forms design department of Steelcase. Later he opened his own design business, The Ink Spot. After moving north to Elk Rapids, he worked at Leelanau Enterprise in Leland Township.

Jim’s most treasured times were those spent with his family, especially his grandchildren. He had an indomitable sense of humor, was a great storyteller, and had an abundance of friends. Jim was an enthusiastic outdoorsman, hunter, and fisherman. He had a tremendous love and appreciation for his pets and all animals and wildlife.

Jim was preceded in death by his mother and father, Francis and Gerald Drake, and brother-in-law, Vern Barnard.

Remaining behind to remember Jim are his wife of 57 years, Marcia (Meissner) Drake; daughter, Robin Drake; son, Randy (Kris) Drake; grandson, Brenton Drake; granddaughter, Brie Drake; sister, Diane (Drake) Barnard; brother, Ken Drake; many nieces and nephews, and longtime hunting partners and cherished friends, Diane and Bob LaBeau.

Our family gives profound thanks to the staff at Munson Medical Center who so sweetly cared for all of us in Jim’s final hours. We also thank Dr. Kevin Clayton for the outstanding skill, care, friendship and dedication he has shown Jim through the years.

A Celebration of Life will be held at First Presbyterian Church, 400 Spruce Street in Elk Rapids on June 1, 2019 at 12:00 noon. A luncheon will immediately follow.

Please visit Life Story Funeral Home, Traverse City’s webpage at www.lifestorytc.com to sign the guestbook and share your thoughts and memories with the family.