Dennis Eugene Drake

Dennis Eugene Drake, age 75, of Millcreek Township, passed away Tuesday, April 28, 2015, at Pleasant Ridge Manor, in Girard, following a lengthy illness.

Born May 12, 1939, in Erie, he was the son of the late Eugene C. and Marie E. (Montgomery) Drake.

He was a 1957 graduate of Academy High School, and after graduation, began a career with Zurn Energy (Erie City Iron Works). He retired in 1994, after 37 years of faithful service.

He served proudly in the U.S. Navy from 1964 to 1967, aboard the USS Purdy (DD-734).

He was a former member of the Siebenbuerger Club and the Penn-Ohio Model "A" Ford Club. He enjoyed antique cars, motorcycles and NASCAR. Dennis loved spending time with his family and his large circle of friends. He was a member of Our Lady of Peace Church.

He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Linda (Chiaramonte) Drake, whom he married February 17, 1968; his sister, Janet Scalise, of Chambersburg, Pa.; one niece, Ann Marie Starliper (Darren), of Greencastle, Pa.; and three great-nephews, Drake, Brady and Carter Starliper. They held a special place in his heart.

The family would like to thank the staff at Pleasant Ridge Manor, in Girard, especially Unit G, for their loving care and support. We would never have made it through these difficult years without you.

Dennis was a true gentleman with a deep love of God, life, family, and friends. The world was a better place with him in it.

Friends are invited to call at Brugger Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1595 W. 38th St., at Greengarden Blvd., Friday from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m., and to attend prayers there Saturday at 12:20 p.m., followed by a funeral Mass at Our Lady of Peace Church at 1 p.m. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to Emmaus Ministries, 345 E. 9th St., Erie, PA 16503, or Pleasant Ridge Manor, Friends Forever, 8300 W. Ridge Rd., Girard, PA 16417.

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