Derek Drake
November 03, 1968 - March 27, 2024
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Derek Drake
November 03, 1968 - March 27, 2024
Obituary
Bellingham, WA – Derek Drake, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on March 27, 2024, at the age of 55. His departure leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him.
Derek was born on November 3, 1968, in Glendale, California, and later attended Marina and San Pedro High School. He had an affinity for learning and pursued a career in plumbing, graduating from the Plumber Apprenticeship Program. He went on to become a Journeyman Plumber and was eventually promoted to organizer for Local 26 Plumbing and Pipefitters.
On October 3, 1997, Derek exchanged vows with the love of his life, Doreen Drake, in a heartfelt ceremony in Florida. Derek’s favorite moments often involved spending time with his family, especially playing with his triplets and grandchildren. He was known for his “joke of the day,” his goodbye kisses before heading to work, and his passion for teaching his loved ones the art of catching lizards with grass.
In addition to his professional achievements, Derek found immense joy in simple pleasures. He cherished walking his dog Tank and creating lifelong memories with his grandchildren. Derek was affectionate, caring, loving, trustworthy, understanding, witty, hardworking, and intelligent. His kindness, compassion, and unwavering love will forever be etched in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. He was truly irreplaceable.
Derek is survived by his devoted wife, Doreen Drake; his beloved triplet daughters, Danielle, Demi, and Desirae Drake; his adoring grandchildren, Saylor, Brody, and Maddi; his loyal canine companions, Tank and D.O.G.; his sister, brother, and niece. He is preceded in death by his father, Clayton Drake; his grandparents, Ralph and Janice Trent; and his aunt, Jannett Stringer.
Derek will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May he rest in eternal peace.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Moles Farewell Tributes – Bayview Chapel on Saturday, April 13th at 12:00pm. 2465 Lakeway Drive, Bellingham, WA.
Celebration of Life
- Date & Time: April 13, 2024 (12:00 PM)
- Venue: Moles Farewell Tributes – Bayview Chapel
- Location: 2465 Lakeway Drive Bellingham, WA 98229 - (Get Directions)
- Phone Number: (360) 733-0510
3 responses to Derek Drake
Glenda Estrella says:
April 5, 2024
My deepest condolence, and heartbroken to my best friend Doreen, and my God Childs- Danielle, Demi, Desirae, also to Saylor ,Brody Matti, who loved their Papa soooo much. Sending love, thoughts, and prayers to all of you, during this tough time. May the special memories you made together help you through this difficult time. Always thinking of you , love you with all my heart.
Todd Zender says:
April 13, 2024
I met Derek twenty years ago when I was still an apprentice plumber and he was already a journeyman and foreman. I thoroughly enjoyed the time I have spent in Derek’s company over the past two decades and he was my friend as well as a co worker. Derek was a skilled and knowledgeable tradesman who excelled at the craft of plumbing but I believe it was in his role as a Labor Organizer he was able to fully utilize his greatest gift. Derek was a people person in every sense of the word. He truly loved being around and interacting with others. He had an extraordinary talent for connecting with people and an innate drive to try and help anyone he met find opportunities, overcome challenges and improve themselves. It was a blessing and an honor to have The Drake as a friend and co worker. My deepest condolences to Doreen and Derek’s daughters and grandchildren.
Gary Galyean says:
April 13, 2024
My deepest condolences to Doreen and family. Derek was a good man and a great friend. He always had a big smile and a warm handshake whenever we met. He is missed. Praying for you, Doreen, and family.