William J. Drake

At the age of 91, William Joseph Drake threw his last pitch and hung up his dancing shoes, in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, on May 30, 2023, following a short illness. He was born on February 10, 1932, in Philadelphia, PA, to Irish immigrant parents, William and Mary (Norris) Drake. Bill attended LaSalle College High School and LaSalle College graduating with a degree in accounting that led to a career in finance. His life was a testimony to his faith and unwavering commitment to his country. As a young man, he answered the call and proudly served in the United States Army. Bill carried this selfless spirit throughout his life and was an inspiration to all who knew him.
Bill was a man who truly enjoyed life and loved his family. He married Elizabeth Power, in October of 1955. The happy couple raised seven children in Wilmington, Delaware and later in Feasterville, Pennsylvania. After 54 years of marriage, Bill was preceded in death by his beloved Bette. He was also predeceased by his dear daughter, Eileen Kowal, his sister, Catherine Drake, and his brother, Thomas Drake. He is survived by his children Pat (Vince) Furlong, Maureen (Paul) Maguire, Bette (Bill) Belleville, Billy (Nyra) Drake, Michael (Diane) Drake, and Brian (Jodi) Drake. He was also blessed with 15 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren who filled his life with great joy. Bill is also survived by his dear friend, Doris Arnoldy.
When he wasn't busy crunching numbers for his taxes, Bill loved living it up with his family. He enjoyed family dinners and vacations, and he was always up for a good laugh. He was on hand to celebrate the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren on and off the athletic field.
Bill was a die-hard Philadelphia Phillies fan and would rarely miss a game. He had some fancy footwork on the dance floor and was a big fan of Frank Sinatra, Billy Joel, Rod Stewart and a good Irish ballad. He enjoyed an Irish whiskey neat and the occasional margarita. Bill could often be found watching Fox News and was always ready for a discussion of current politics. As a man of leisure, he perfected his backswing at notable golf courses across the country and in his ancestral home of Ireland. Bill's devotion to his faith was unwavering, and he lived his life as a faithful follower of Jesus Christ and parishioner at Assumption B.V.M. Catholic Church in Feasterville.
A visitation will be held at 9:30 am on Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at Assumption B.V.M. Catholic Church, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am on the same day. Interment, with military honors, will be at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Bill will be forever remembered for his love of life, family, and country. He will be deeply missed, but we're sure he's up there watching over us, saying, "How 'bout that!"
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Bill's name to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd. Staten Island, NY 10306 (t2t.org) would be appreciated.
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Life Celebration services provided by John F. Givnish of Academy Rd.