Steven W. Drake

1949 - 2022

Drake as he preferred to be called was a resident of Porterville, California. He was born in San Francisco on Sept. 7, 1949 but raised from a young age in Waka, Texas and referred to himself proudly as true blue Texan. He graduated from Spearman High School and then entered into the USAF in 1968. He served actively until discharged in 1972. He served in the reserves until 1974. Drake loved his country and served it with all he had, always. Drake passed to the other side of the veil on April 6, 2022 in Porterville, California. He was surrounded by loving family as he left to be with his Heavenly Father at age 72.
He was the son of Oscar (O.E.) Emmitt Drake and Pauline Alma Wallace. He was beloved husband of Beverly Jean De Jong Drake. They were married on December 23, 1989 in Springville, California. Throughout their 33 years through ups and few downs, they worked together and shared a loving, giving, and faith filled marriage. They are truly each other's best friends.
Drake was the Patriarch of a large family. He is survived by his wife Bev., 3 living children, son Gary Glendenning Drake (wife Setha), daughters, Maureen Rather Drake, Lori Drake Anderson (husband Michael Sr.) and proceeded in death by son Ronald Sharp (and his surviving wife Colleen Hopson Sharp). Drake was affectionately known as Papa by 20 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. Drake met the love of his life while he was playing music professionally. Which he did for over 30 years. He had a great life as a professional musician playing many instruments but mostly known as a "hot" pianist and keyboard player", singer, song writer and arranger. He then changed careers and became a Psych Tech. until he retired.
Drake was a die hard Dallas Cowboy fan. When he married his wife he had to also become a L.A. Rams fan. The Dodgers were the only way for him to go when it came to baseball. He loved playing golf with family or friends and loved his poker parties with friends and family.
He was proceeded in death his parents, eldest son Ron and mother–in-law Marge Reynolds. Drake was a loyal Husband, Patriarch, and Friend. His hand shake was his bond. He had a beautiful and strong spirit and loved his Savior completely. He will be missed by many dear friends in music, those he worked with as a psych tech, friends he met throughout his life, and especially his loving, crazy family.
A celebration of life will be held on May 21, 2022. It will begin at 1:00 p.m. at The church of Jesus Christ of latter-day Saints located at 1154 N. Newcomb in Porterville. The family is asking that all contributions or remembrances be sent to a cause of your choice. To sign Steven Wallace Drake's online Register book or leave a message of condolence go to www.portervillefuneral.com. For additional information, contact Porterville Funeral & Cremation Center at (559) 784-6485.