Services for Ralph Alan Drake, 89, Lawrence, will be private. Inurnment will take place in Leavenworth National Cemetery.
Mr. Drake died August 26, 2021, at his home.
He was born September 30, 1931, in Lawrence, the son of Jay Franklin and Josephine Beckner Drake. He graduated from high school and earned a bachelor’s degree from Bethany College, where he played football. Mr. Drake has lived in Lawrence most of his life.
Mr. Drake served in the United States Navy during the Korean War as an airplane mechanic. He was stationed in Virginia and Cuba. He taught middle school history and math, as well as coaching basketball and football.
Ralph enjoyed fishing, making lures, stock car and Indy racing, KU basketball and football.
Survivors include a brother, Melvin Drake and wife Donita, of Lawrence; nephew, Brian Drake of Kansas City, Missouri; and brother in law, Jim Dwyer.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jay Willis Drake; and sister, Virginia Dwyer.
Mr Drake was my teacher in Jr High and I remember the talks we used to have about life in general . What a nice man ! Rest in Peace Sir ???
My family and I are so sorry for your loss. We have been friends with Ralph for many years. Ralph and I spent many hours together in my shop working on race cars. He will be dearly missed by all of us.
I remember Mr Drake from India school as a coach and great teacher
He was a great teacher. God bless
2 Ralph Drake will be missed. He was teacher basketball , softball coach at India school.
We have been neighbors of Ralph for many years and will miss him. Condolences to the family and know you will miss him.
So sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers go out to all the family.
Ralph was my neighbor and my friend as I was growing up – always willing to help with anything we needed. I was struggling with math and he helped me through that! I and my family will miss him !
Our sincere condolences to the family.
Great man
Great teacher
Will miss you sir
We are so sorry for your loss. Hugs to the Drake Family.
Condolences to Ralph’s family. Ralph was one of our favorite people. We have known him forever and he was a great person. Bless him and his family. May he Rest In Peace.