Donald William Drake

Donald William Drake Donald William Drake passed away on Tuesday, April 4, 2017, at 4:45 am in San Luis Obispo at 79 years old. Don was born March 1938 in Santa Monica, Calif. He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout at 14 and graduated UCLA in 1960 with a degree in physical education. He was a long distance runner, and completed the mile in 4 minutes, 9 seconds. Upon graduation Don attended the U.S. Naval Officer School in Newport, R.I. He served in the U.S. Navy for seven years and was honorably discharged as a Lieutenant Commander. He spent 21 years working as a Manager for AT&T. Don proudly served as the Athletic Director, Soccer and Track Coach for Templeton High School. Later in his life he pursued his passion for art. Many locals display his "Ducky Art" proudly in their homes throughout San Luis Obispo County. A long time cyclist, Don started riding with the Yellow Jackets of San Luis Obispo bicycle club in 1995. He rode many thousands of miles, completing over 35 "centuries" (100 mile rides) and rode the "Death Ride" at age 65. Don met his current wife, Pat, in 2001 and they wed in 2003. They loved to travel the world together, especially by cruise ship. They completed nine transatlantic cruises as well as land trips to China and Europe. Don is survived by his wife Pat; brothers Bob and Rich Drake; son Doug (Sue) of Huntington Beach; daughters Debbie Dunne (Pete) of Palomar Park, Jennifer Walker (Wayne) of Grover Beach and Karen (Golden) Drake of San Diego; grandsons Erik Drake, Angel Tapia, Ian Dunne, JJ Walker; granddaughters Danniele Drake and Ixchel Tapia; step-sons Matt and Tom Grzincic; step-grand- children Jade Lehrmann and Sandy Valois; and great- grandsons Shawn, Tristen and Cameron Lehrmann. Don was a darling curmudgeon who will be greatly missed by all. Services will be held at 2:00 pm, Friday, April 7, 2017, at the Nativity of our Lady, 221 Daly Ave., San Luis Obispo, with a Celebration of Life to follow. Sign his guestbook at sanluisobispo.com/obituaries - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/sanluisobispo/obituary.aspx?n=donald-william-drake&pid=184986809#sthash.z9uEgbzs.dpuf

Donald William Drake

March 22, 1938 - April 4, 2017