Vern Drake
Passed away peacefully on January 15, 2013 in his 92nd year. Beloved husband of Betty Drake. Predeceased by his late wife Ysobel Drake. Dear father to Bruce (Peggy), Carrie (Mike), Art (Pam), John and Tom (late Denise). Cherished grandfather & “the Nyz Guy” to Angela, Josh, Arron, Caitlin, Gordon, Miriam, Ruth, Savannah and Rachel. Great-Grandfather to 9 wonderful children. Predeceased by his brothers Colvin (Judy), Lou (Lois), and Bruce. Son of the late Arthur and Lydia Drake (nee Mouat) of Salt Spring Island. Survived by many nieces, nephews and brother-in-law Jack Carter. Vern saw active duty during his six years of service in WWII in the 16th LAA Battery RCA. He also served in England, France and was a survivor of the raid at Dieppe. Following his discharge from military service, he settled in Windsor where he married Ysobel and raised his family. He worked as a toll collector and later a supervisor on the Ambassador Bridge. He was an active member of Kiwanis Club of Windsor and a Windsor Goodfellow. He found love a second time and enjoyed many years of joy and happiness with Betty. They especially enjoyed their drives in the county. He and Betty were active seniors at Emmanuel United Church. Vern was a humble and dignified man who loved the people who surrounded him. Donations in memory of Vern may be made to Kiwanis International or the Windsor Goodfellows. In accordance with Vern’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Memorial Visitation will take place at Walter D. Kelly Life Celebration Centre (1969 Wyandotte St. E.) on Saturday, January 19, 2013 from 11:00 am until the celebration of life at 12:00 am.