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Randy Drake Obituary
Put a golf club or a fishing rod in his hand, or have a kid wake him up asking to play, and that was all it took to make Randy Drake happy.
He preferred to indulge his interests with members of his family. He had plenty of choices. He was one of 13 children, and on his side alone, he had 30 nieces and nephews, most of whom lived near his home in Lee's Summit, Mo., which he shared with his wife, Tammy, and son, Joe, 17. "He often said he would rather be with his family than anybody else," said Mrs. Drake.
Mr. Drake, 37, was a network integration manager for Siemens, and was assigned to a job at 195 Broadway, across the street from the World Trade Center. After the first plane struck, his building was evacuated. He called his wife to say he was O.K., but he was apparently hit by debris from the impact of the second plane. He died Sept. 22.
Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on December 31, 2001.
RANDY DRAKE, 37, of Lee's Summit, Mo., died more than a week after falling debris from the World Trade Center attacks fractured his skull. He was a network integration manager for Siemens working on a project in New York's financial district. He called his wife after the first plane struck one of the center's twin towers. "He said, 'I just wanted you to know that I'm OK and I love you and goodbye,'" Tammy Drake said.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Bob Wolff
September 10, 2021
GOD BLESS YOU, sir
again, i am back from The Lake of the Ozarks - last year i went to my niece's wedding - this year i actually got to enjoy the Lake ...fish,swim - like i did across the water from your dad Don's house 28 years ago
so NOW i think of him and your mother and how there life has been without you, your dad singing in the St. Patricks Church choir.
Randall lives on in his son and family
...and friends of same
Cindy Roe
September 8, 2021
Remembering Randy on the 20th anniversary of 9/11...
Randall J Weight
September 11, 2020
Miss u uncle randy just wanted to ask u to take care of my dad up there and let u know he never did forget about u. Figured since he's not here this year to put something on here I would for him.
Matthew
September 11, 2020
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. My heart goes out to Randy's family. May he rest in peace.
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Bob Wolff
September 11, 2020
am thinking of you today, along with your family, as i prepare to go The Lake of the Ozarks ...and of your parents
Alex
September 19, 2019
To Randy,
I am shocked you died days after 9/11, and that you did not actually work at the Twin towers. Its unfortunate that falling debris from the impact of Flt. 175 caused your passing. I was born before 911, the memories of the attack are a bit fresh because I was 8 yrs. old then.
Condolences to your family.
September 12, 2019
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
The Kindred Family
November 1, 2018
Sending our heartfelt thoughts of deep sympathy to your family. With each new day may God give the comfort and help needed to continue coping with such a sad loss. Randy will always be fondly remembered.
James Schad
August 14, 2017
you will never be forgotten. Like so many others who where lost that tragic day Tuesday September 11th 2001 you all are always remembered. Rest in Peace
November 18, 2015
I just realised.
Bless him.
Best wishes to loved ones.
Paul F Drake/ Australia 19/11/2015
September 11, 2015
As I always do on this day each year (the anniversary of 9/11), take a moment to remember Randy and his family. Randy and I worked together and played softball together after work. I have never know a player who could throw a softball as hard as Randy. I remember him playing centerfield and throwing a runner out at home without a bounce. He was a very good teammate and person to call my friend.
We lost touch once he moved out of the department and later moved to Kansas City but you never forget someone like Randy and I will continue to remember him always.
Sincerely,
Burley D Gunn
221 Red Bluff Drive
Hickory Creek, TX 75065
Elaine Scott
September 11, 2014
Your family is forever in my prayers.
Although I am Greek-Orthodox, I attended your parents parish at the Lake of the Ozarks and prayed for you, that Sunday after 9-11 in 2001.
Each year, we remember your sacrifice and continue to pray for your entire family. We live in the same cove and feel blessed to have met your parents and watch your family gather to continue family traditions.
May you rest in eternal peace
TH
September 11, 2014
Today, 09/11/14, Randy, you are remembered. We send our thoughts and prayers to your family members. We will never forget.
Emma Stone
July 27, 2013
You just came in my mind. I wish you were still here to tickle me and make me laugh. Love you Uncle Randy. I will see you soon
Bob Hatcher
September 11, 2012
I knew Randy, at Siemens. We had spoken on the phone several times, and met in person, the first time at a meeting in Santa Clara, CA. He was a respected Engineer and you knew he was a straight up guy when you spoke with him.
My hotel reservation was lost, there were no rooms available for 50 miles, but Randy offered to share his room.
I remember him making sure to call his wife, Tammy, before it got too late. While others were having after hours drinks, Randy was focused on home.
It was Randy's skill set, experience, and knowledge that put him in demand, and a fateful trip to NY to lead a complex client solution. You knew you could count on Randy to make it work right and teach others.
Randy, you are not forgotten. You were one of the Good Guys.
Best wishes to his family and friends.
Jim Hankins
September 12, 2011
We will never forget you Randy. Our prayers go out to your family . God Bless
September 11, 2011
September 11, 2011
On this 10th anniversary we are thinking of you-Tammy and Joe-and all of your family.
Michael and Mary Touney Lake Lotawana, MO
Bryan Touney Nashville, TN
David Burton
September 11, 2011
Thinking of you and your family on this day, my Condolences
Dave Burton - Siemens employee - Newcastle UK
Mike Boulton
September 11, 2011
Hard to believe it has been 10 years, thinking of you often.
Linda Kane
September 10, 2011
Tammy, remembering Randy and praying for peace for your and your family.
September 10, 2011
Tammy, we have lost touch but wanted to let you know I am thinking of you, especially on this 10 yr anniversary. If you get this, I am on Facebook under Claudia Meyers (Billings). God bless you and your family.
Lee.c Chevalier
September 5, 2011
Maybe it sounds silly but we enjoyed another family cookout and our son did the salted corn in the shuck, the way Randy taught us so long ago. It's a simple thing, pure coincidence. He's expecting a son. We think of your family as often as we think of you. God bless, Lee and Bill.
Matt
September 13, 2010
I just saw Randy's name on a tile hanging on a fence at the end of "Giuliani's 9/11" on TV. It's hard when something so far away hits so close to home. I had to put a face with a neighbor's name. May God bless your family.
Valerie Minniear
September 11, 2010
My prayers go out to you and your family on this day of remembrance.
Jim Hankins
September 11, 2010
A plane will be flying over Chesterfield, Michigan shortly after 8:46am September 11th, 2010 carrying a banner stating simply, we will never forget. We miss you.
Jim Hankins
Detroit Arms, LLC
Worked with Randy at Borg Warner on a long project. A wonderful man, who is sorely missed.
Staezia Drake
September 8, 2010
To the Drake Family,
i believe that Drakes everywhere are related. though i have never known of Randy Drake. or any other Drakes of his family...i just wanted to know that all the Drakes are in my prayers..
Doug Abraham
June 18, 2009
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Lee Chevalier
March 17, 2009
Well, it's one of our first Spring days so my youngest son says, "let's grill". He's all grown now, handsome and strapping, "let's put some corn on". I stop a moment. He means, let's put some corn on the way Randy taught us: soak it in salt water, add some butter inside the shuck and let it steam.
I look at my grandaughter, I wonder about Joe, is he married, is he loved by someone the way my boy is. So I go to the web pages just to make sure Randy's name is going to be inscribed on any lists, any plaques. Oh sure, I'll look the way I look at the Viet Nam Memorial when I'm in DC. But it's the corn that gives me a moment; my kid knows, he's heard this before. He sees.
Mike Boulton
September 20, 2007
In coming up to the 6th year that Randy passed, I find myself thinking about him time and time again. Randy was the first person I met when I came to Siemens, and made me feel very welcome. After the work was done, we'd always go out for a beverage and either pool and/or games. He will always be missed.
Chris Willis
January 30, 2007
I attended St. John's and O'Hara high schools with Randy. He was a good friend, but we lost touch after high school. I just now learned that he was a victim of the Sept. 11th attacks.
My thoughts and prayers are with the Drake family today. I am so very sorry for your loss and ask God to be with you each and every day.
Kristine
November 2, 2006
As I stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
P Tabbernor
September 28, 2006
In remembrance....
Tanya Avila
September 11, 2003
Randy Drake will always have a place in my heart. I met and married him while he was in the army. After a sad event, we went our seperate ways. Even though we went on with our lives, I knew if I needed him, he would be there to help. He loved his family and friends very much and I know he will be greatly missed. The Drakes are in my family's prayers and often in my thoughts.
Tanya Drake Avila
Greg Weight
May 16, 2003
Randy was my best friend. Couldn't have asked for better. Too many memories to list. Always there no matter what. I will, and do, miss him forever.
Greg Weight
Karry Rouse
October 8, 2002
I work for Siemens and knew Randy Drake by name only. I can't describe how the news of his death affected me....God bless Randy Drake's family.
Rev. Richard Gielow,C.M.
September 12, 2002
To all the Drakes, especially
Tammy and Joe and Randy's parents.
I believe Randy went to St. John's
High School Sem. in Kansas City.
I was principal there. I remember
Randy as one of our team players.
In school, there is a tendency to be so preoccupied with self, that
the others become secondary. Randy
was a team player. I respected him
for that. He loved life then, and
would pull a few tricks always trying to get others to laugh.
I pray for your family in this loss. I didn't realize his leaving
us until I went over the lists on
the memorial day, 9/11,2002. He is
missed by all of you, but know that
he enjoys a kingdom of happiness.
God bless
Michelle Miller
September 11, 2002
Today is the one year anniversary and all I can think about is where I was a year ago and hearing about Randy. I didn't know Randy that well but what I did know of him was that he was a great guy. One of the fondest memories I have of him was when we were all at church at the lake and it was the outdoor service. During the service my dad and I were throwing little twigs at him and Tammy and they just looked back at us and laughed. Everytime I hear the song "Spirit In the Sky" I always think of Randy. You are always in my prayers Tammy and Joe and the rest of the Drake family. You are all an extension of my family and wonderful friends. I think that you all have great courage and I am very proud of all of you. You have really kept each other going. My heart goes out to you all.
Love and Prayers,
Michelle
David Hester
September 11, 2002
I am sorry to say that I can't call Randy my friend, since I never had the opportunity to get to know him as well as I would have liked. He was a bright and well respected co-worker, who was always ready to assist in any way possible. After 9/11, I drove home to Florida from a project in Los Angeles, and Randy was in my thoughts and prayers every mile of the way. He is very much missed by all of his co-workers, and remains in our thoughts and prayers today.
Steve Smith
September 11, 2002
Today is September 11th, 2002. I find myself reflecting on the last phone conversation I had with Randy. We spoke every month or so, just to catch up with each other and see how work was going. I miss those times.
May God Bless Tammy, Joe and all of the Drakes on this anniversary of tragic loss. I am confident that Randy is with you each and every day in mind and spirit.
We all miss you Randy...
Steve
Steve
September 10, 2002
September 11 is tomorrow, and although I didn't know Randy before 9/11 personally, I feel like I do somehow know him today. We all have loved ones who we love and who love us, and we were all saddened by the loss of Randy, because that easily could have been someone that we loved. I have know idea what your heart is going through with his loss, but If I had lost someone that close to me, I know it would take a life time to get over it, one minute and one day at a time. Just know that he is in heaven and is with both of you always. You are in my prayers and I grieve for your loss of Randy, he seemed like one hell of a man.
Kim Vaughn
September 6, 2002
I am one of Randy's neices. I did not get to see him often but the few times I did he was always smiling and ready to play with us kids. Aunt Tammy and Joe I am ALWAYS here if you need me you know how to reach me I love you guys
J Johnson
August 7, 2002
I never met Randy Drake, although I heard many stories about him long before September 11th. Some were funny, some were sad and some were testament to his love, his loyalty and his honor. Since then, I've learned even more about him through the eyes of Greg, his close friend since childhood.
May God keep him in the hollow of his hand; may his spirit live on in his family and friends forever; and may peace, laughter and love be his legacy to each of us throughout all our tomorrows. God bless you, Randy.
The Randy I Remember ...
Beki Weight
August 5, 2002
These are the ways I remember Randy:
Negotiating for Hot Wheels in the sandbox ...
Doing cannonballs off the high dive ...
Smelling of fishguts on a summer day ...
Pulling up in his tow truck on the highway at midnight ...
Standing proud in his uniform ...
Pulling me out of the river on a canoe trip ...
Anticipating the future as he graduated ...
Tammy, Joe, JoAnn, Don, Marty, Rick, Deb, Dan, Judy, Tim, Andy, Kelly, Amy, Greg, Billy and Mary ... our hearts remain with you. The world is a poorer place for his loss.
Randy Weight
August 5, 2002
I was named after Randy Drake. He was my dad's best friend when they were growing up and until he died. I proud to bear his name and hopefully my life will prove worthy of it.
Ralph Drake
June 19, 2002
I have never meet any of my father's relatives, so I consider all Drake's to be related. I am sorry for your loss and will pray for you.
David Welch
May 28, 2002
to the family and friends of randy drake. he was one of the best men ive ever nown. he was a loving father and husband he was all a true friend .... i new him for just a short time he and his family lived in grand prarie his son played foot ball on a team that i coached we became good friends im gonna miss him deeply even though we havent talk in some time ... my heart goes out to tammy and joe you will be in my prayers for ever ..... God bless all the fallin .......
Ed Casey
May 22, 2002
I knew Randy. I came to love the man. He worked (through Siemens) for me for the two years before he died. He knew the hardship work away from home brought, and spoke every day about Tammy and Joe; so much that I feel I know them as well. I spent time with him while he was away from his family, and for that time I will always be grateful.
We travelled together to remote sites, and shared more in common that most people. We shared the same background in faith, a technology career, love of family, and healthy appetite for steaks. We talked for hours about fishing trips in Mexico, about flying in his father's plane, travel all over the place, and most of all his large family. He loved his family with his whole heart and planned great things in the years ahead.
No one will ever know why one is taken and the other left. I thank God that he had such a strong faith and that his work here furthered his ability to be with God as I believe he is today.
My thoughts and prayers will always remember Randy, as well as Mr. and Mrs. Drake, his sisters and brothers, and mostly Tammy and Joe.
Ed Casey, Jr.
Shari Daly
April 17, 2002
Even though it has been over 7 months since the attacks that took your loved one, please know that we are still out here, still praying for you, still care, and will never forget your loss. May God always smile upon you and bless you in your time of need.
Debby Meyer
March 24, 2002
I am one of Randy's sisters and I am touched by your thoughts and prayers. I continue to think our family has been blessed admist the tragedy. So many are not as forunate as we have been. We will come through this stronger. God bless you all!
Debby Meyer
Amy Drake
March 24, 2002
Thanks to all of you for your thoughts and prayers. They are what keeps me going each day.
Amy
Cheri Berry
March 12, 2002
Although I did not know Randy Drake personally, I live less then an hour away from his hometown in Lee's Summit. That in itself brings the impact of this senseless act so much closer to home. I thank God for legacy.com for the opportunity for all of us to be able to express our sympathy, and heartfelt prayers to the families of these victims. God Bless all of you, my thoughts, and prayers are with all of Randy Drakes family and friends
Shawn Titus
March 11, 2002
I was so sorry to hear about Randy. My prayers are with you. The Drakes were such a big part of my childhood summers - from Marty to Billy, they all spent some time at White Ridge Swim Club and I remember them all fondly.
mel teague
February 8, 2002
I happened upon this site to see if anyone from MO had been a victim of 9/11. I claim MO as home though I recently relocated. May God bless you with comfort. My husband and I too like to golf and fish. I know Randy is having fun in heaven doing so.
Anonymous
January 12, 2002
DEAR LORD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON RANDY
DRAKE AND MAY HE REST IN PEACE WITH
GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS
FAMILY AND FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01...AMEN
Judy Leger
January 7, 2002
I didn't realize that Siemens had lost someone due to the Sept 11th disaster until I saw the scholarship presented to Joseph on i-WAY. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. May God be with you during this time of healing and give you comfort in your time of pain.
Teresa Jahn
January 4, 2002
We are tremendously sorry for your loss of Randy. May his life and love live on in all who have been touched by his life. May you always feel the warmth of his love radiate into your hearts. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Tammy Drake
December 31, 2001
I just want to thank EVERYONE who has supported me and my family as we have dealt with the worst time in our lives.There are so many people that have done little things to try and ease our pain and I can not event begin to thank you all.Randy was a wonderful husband,father,son,brother,uncle and friend.I will miss him every minute of everyday,but I know that he is in a much better place than we are.It is my prayer that we all will find peace in the coming months and will begin to heal.My thanks to the entire NYPD & NYFD for all of the things that you have all done during this tragic time.Thank you dosn't seem to be enough but it is all I have and it is from the bottom of my heart.
With much thanks and gratitude,
Tammy Drake
Elise Rivera
December 6, 2001
I am also a Siemens employee (Iselin, NJ) and am so saddened to hear of Randy Drake's passing. I did not know Randy but I wanted to extend my deepest sympathies to his wife and family.
Louise Vigil
November 13, 2001
To:The Drake family,
I purchased a mercy band and Randy name is inscribe on it. I will wear it daily and keep you in my prayers.
And although I didn't know him I always remember him. Louise
leslie miller
November 2, 2001
I wish there were something I could say to ease your pain. Please find comfort in happy memories, and know that thousands of us "out there" will never forget you, will always have you in our prayers.
Chris Hagen
October 23, 2001
I was a classmate of Randy's brother, Greg...I am so sorry for your loss. May God encourage you through this hard time.
Barb Hafner
October 23, 2001
I want to extend my sincere condolences for your family's loss in this tragedy. May God bless you all with peace and comfort in the days and years to come. Barb
Jane Alexander
October 16, 2001
Tammy,
As a Missourian, I extend my sincere condolences for the loss of your husband. God Bless you and your family.
Jane
lolita marzian
October 15, 2001
Tammy, my heart breaks for you and your family. May God help you through this. I send u a hug. xx
God Bless.
Denise Hinson
October 3, 2001
God Bless you and your family. The nation hurts for a way to help you through this. Take comfort to know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Bob & Darlene Drake
September 30, 2001
Hello, I don't know if my husband's family was related to Randy, but Drake isn't that common of a last name? We are sorry for your lose, may god comfort you in this time of need and forever.
Stephanie De La Rosa
September 29, 2001
I am saddened by the immense loss of so many wonderful people. Even today I still find myself becoming choked up and teary eyed for such an unexplainable loss. Our thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you. May God bless and take care of your family. (*I am originally from KCMO)
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