Delmar Keith Drake was born July 11, 1931 in Valentine, Montana, in eastern Montana to Arnold and Isadeen Drake. Dad was born at home and moved to Grantsdale in the Bitterroot Valley in 1937 where his dad bought an 80-acre farm not too far up the Skalkaho road above Grantsdale. He was raised in a farmhouse with his dad, mom, four siblings, grandpa and grandma.
It was at 12 years old at a church in Grantsdale at Vacation Bible School that dad was saved. Over the years, he developed a strong personal relationship with Jesus until the day he died. Dad went to his first eight grades of school in Grantsdale and graduated from Hamilton High in 1949.
After high school, dad worked for Safeway until he moved from the Bitterroot in August 1950 to join the Navy to fight in the Korean War. He spent his four years aboard the USS Bataan aircraft carrier. He served honorably and got out in 1954.
When he got back to the states, dad went to work mostly for Safeway again where he met the love of his life, Agnes Jones in Missoula. He tells stories that she was the prettiest lady in the entire store. They got married on June 8th, 1957 and were married until mom died on June 14, 2015, or for 58 years.
Dad and mom moved to Dillon, Montana, to continue to work for Safeway. He then worked as the Parts Manager for Elliott Ford Sales for 20 years after which he had an opportunity to work for the Post Office and finished his career with 16 years as a Postal Clerk and Carrier. After dad retired, he and mom moved to Helena until she passed in June 2015 and he passed in June 2024.
Dad is survived by Larry Allen Drake, Monte Keith (Leslie) Drake, and Lana Marie (Larry) Chambers. He has seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. Also, his youngest brother, Melvin Drake. Dad was preceded in death by his father and his mother, his loving wife, Agnes, his grandson, Anthony Drake, and three of his four siblings, Lola Bailes, Donald Drake and Maxine Linendoll.
Dad led a wonderful life of almost 93 years and was known as a man of character, kindness and goodness. He raised us kids to work hard and to love others unconditionally. He taught us kids how to hunt, fish and love the “sticks” (as mom called it) around Dillon.
Another good one has passed on, but heaven is rejoicing to welcome a wonderful saint home.
Services will be held on Saturday, July 6th at 1:00 pm. at Hannaford Street Bible Church, 830 N Hannaford, Helena. Service will be livestreamed at: ceremony@hannaford.org/sermons
Dad asked that any donations be made to Hannaford Street Bible Church or St. Peter’s Health Hospice, both in Helena, Montana.
Kevin Drake says
It’s such sad news to hear about Del’s passing. He had a wonderful easy going and friendly nature. One of a bunch of great aunts and uncles. With fond memories and best wishes for Larry, Monte and Lana.
Take care, Kevin Drake
Donelda Conover says
I am so sorry to hear of Del’s passing. I work with him at Elliott ford Sales in Dillon and we became good friends.My heart goes out to the family.
Chiko Olson says
Another great man in heaven. Papa Del taught us how to “see” others,to let them know they were loved by him. He showed the love of Christ and made you feel treasured.Let’s follow the example that he learned from the word of God and “see” others and love them as Christ does. Prayers over all who’s hearts are broken and needing mending.