Florence DRAKE

DRAKE, Florence (nee Selvin) Unexpectedly but peacefully on February 27th at St. Michael's Hospital in her 93rd year. The Selvins emigrated from Russia to Utah where Florence was born. Her studies took her to Mills College in California where she studied to become a social worker. She remained a proud and engaged alumnus. Marriage to Stillman Drake and his subsequent professorship at the University of Toronto brought Florence to Canada. The U of T community was always dear to Florence's heart. Her compassion as a social worker benefited many of Toronto's disadvantaged as she generously supported numerous charities throughout the city. Florence's interest in the arts led her to the Art Gallery of Ontario where she was a volunteer for many years, arranging and leading excursions to Italy, a country both she and Stillman both loved. Family and friends in California were never far from Florence's thoughts and she visited beautiful Berkeley and San Francisco often. Florence treated everyone she met with gentleness, kindness, and generosity. We will miss her lively conversation, her delight in exploring the culinary treasures of Toronto, and her infectious love of life. Those fortunate enough to have known Florence will miss the interest and sincerity she showed not only to her friends but also to their families. Pre-deceased by her husband Stillman Drake and daughter Judy Casaroli. Survived by stepsons Mark and Dan Drake and their families; nephews Steven, Michael, and Joel Selvin and their families. She will be missed by her many friends in the United States and Canada. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday March 26 (Florence's birthday) at 10:00 a.m. at the Victoria College Chapel, University of Toronto.