Thomas Alonzo

Drake

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Thomas Alonzo Drake. He was called home to be with the Lord on January 27, 2026, after a 2-year struggle with vascular dementia.

Tom’s journey began in Nashville, TN on November 20, 1938. Born to Herman and Lee Ella Drake, adding a third boy to the family which included his older brothers, William and Richard. They moved to Indianapolis, IN where he spent most of his childhood. He spent his youth selling programs at the Indy 500. He graduated from Arsenal Technical High School and then went on to get his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, with a minor in mathematics, from Tri-State University in Angola, IN. Upon graduation, he was drafted into the Army.

It was while at Fort Belvoir that he would meet his future wife, Edna Ruth. They were married in Alexandria, VA on 4/4/64 at 4pm. (Edna’s idea so he would never forget.) And it worked for 61 years! They moved to Cleveland, OH for work, then transferred to Grand Rapids. Tom worked for a variety of engineering firms, including: Century Electric, Daverman Bros, and George Orphan and Associates. Tom then went to work in plant operations at Butterworth Hospital. He retired from there, but then, went back to work in 1999 for the City of Grand Rapids in the water department. From there, he transferred in 2004 to his favorite job, Utility Supervisor at the Grand Rapids traffic and lighting department. Then he retired, again, in 2018. Not one to sit still, he became a greeter at Meijer during Covid. Then he finished his long work history at Honey Baked Ham as their “Hambassador”!

But all work and no play makes Tom a dull boy. So, in addition to all his other jobs, his greatest title was Dad, and Bumpa! Tom and Edna welcomed Heather Lynne in 1969, and Cera Elizabeth in 1976. You could always find Tom cheering them on in baton, theater, swimming, singing or dancing. Then grandchildren, Joseph Drake joined the family in 2002, and Fenna Ruth in 2011. They were his pride and joy! Again, to the front row of all their activities!!

When he wasn’t supporting his family, he managed to participate in some hobbies. Coin and flashlight collecting, playing bridge, bingo at the Kentwood senior center and Chick-fil-A, golfing with the church golf league, volunteering at the golf classics, and anything golf related.

Tom’s faith and love of the Lord was also very evident to those who had the pleasure to know him. His servant heart, kind soul and desire to care for those around him was always a beacon of light. He served in church on the sound board, usher, and lay reader, just to name a few. It brings great comfort to know he is in the company of angels, and those who have passed before. He will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him.

Please join us in a celebration of life on November 21, 2026 at 1pm. The service will be held at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 3334 Breton Rd SE, Grand Rapids, MI. After we will enjoy coffee, lemonade and his favorite meal, desserts!