Charles "Charlie" F. Drake, III

Passed away peacefully, with his family by his side on July 6, 2018 at the age of 86.

Charlie greeted everyone with a twinkle in his eyes and a warmth and sincerity that left an impression.  He’s been described by friends and family as a perfect gentleman and one of the kindest people they’ve known.  Charlie is preceded in death by his loving wife of 48 years, Helen Worsencroft Drake, and brother William Drake.  He is survived by his beloved companion, Jane Reckmeyer, daughter Julie (John) Cabaniss, son Tom Drake and granddaughter Sara Drake Cabaniss.  Charlie is also survived by nieces and nephew Chuck Drake, Faranak Drake, Beth (MIke) Anthony and their children, Jasmine, Ramin and Michael (Paul) and Jason as well as step-grandchildren Jason (Emily) Cabaniss, Josh (Brittany) Cabaniss and Jessica Cabaniss. 

Charlie saw only the best in people.  In addition to being an accomplished engineer, business executive and entrepreneur, he was a mentor to countless children in Milwaukee. He had a unique ability to recognize an individual’s gifts and talents, regardless of their situation in life.  He supported, encouraged and championed the children he worked with through Our Next Generation Homework Club, which he co-founded as a member of Christ Church Episcopal in Whitefish Bay in partnership with St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church on 32nd and Lloyd.  Our Next Generation is still going strong!

Charlie was born May 26, 1932 to Charles F. Drake II and Helen Depue Drake.  He attended New Trier High School in Winnetka, Illinois, and completed an Engineering degree (‘54) and an MBA (‘56) at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.  After graduation, he moved to Milwaukee to work for Inland Steel Products. He met his wife, Dr. Helen Worsencroft, at a kite-flying contest.  Helen and Charlie raised two children in Whitefish Bay, what he described as an idyllic life.  Later in his career, he served as CEO of the Butter Company, a hardware distribution company.  After that, he started his own firm promoting B&L Information Systems software for foundry and die cast companies.

An adventurer at heart, Charlie loved to camp, sail and travel.  In 2011-12, Charlie lost his wife Helen, and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease.  Despite these losses, Charlie found a joyful way forward when he began spending time with Jane. Together they explored Milwaukee’s treasures and local culture with their many cherished friends, over these last six years.

A service honoring Charlie’s life will be held on Saturday, July 14th at 10:30 AM at Christ Church Episcopal, 5655 N. Lake Drive, in Whitefish Bay.  The service will be followed by a reception from 12:00 to 2:00 at St. John’s on the Lake, 1840 N. Prospect Avenue, for anyone interested in celebrating Charlie’s life with his family.  His favorites will be served!   Memorials in Charlie’s name may be made to Our Next Generation Foundation, 3421 W. Lisbon Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53208 or St. John’s on the Lake Scholarship Fund at 1840 N. Prospect Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53202.