Obituary

Danny Joe Drake of Glendale, Arizona passed away April 21, 2023 at the age of 76. He was born April 11, 1947 in Amma, West Virginia to Virgil and Katherine (neé Hess) Drake.

Danny was a proud veteran of the United States Navy have served from 1971 to 1998. He retired as a Navy Senior Chief. His favorite quote came from the most famous sailor of all time … Popeye. “I yam what I yam.” He lived by that motto. He was a patriot who traveled the world through the Navy and across America as a truck driver. True to his motto, he loved classic western movies, southern cooking (especially biscuits with gravy, and grits), and reloading bullets as a hobby. He also loved his dogs Bowser and Fuzz with whom he is now reunited.

His proudest achievements were his time in the Navy and his family. He loved to spend time with his kids and attending any activity where his grandkids were involved. Danny was known as an easy-going man who was loving and nurturing. He gave the best advice, and was always there when we needed him. He was patient and authentic and always followed through with his word. But he was no stranger to laughter. He loved to make other people laugh with his jokes, wit, and sarcasm.

He is survived by his wife, best friend, and partner in crime of 30 years Marissa Drake, children Tom, Elizabeth, Amanda, Mary, Bobby, and Ann, sons-in-law Kyle and Travis, and Daughters-in-law Teresa, and Alexis. He is also survived by his grandchildren Dylan, Syrene, Devin, Ebony, Damien, Beau, Kailo, Gavyn, Laurali, Mackenzie, Kayla, Samantha (Taylor), and Shelleah (Colton), and great-grandchildren Ellie, Teagan, Madilyn, Amelia, Brooklyn, and Talyn.

A visitation will be held from 9am to 1pm on Saturday, April 29 at Thompson Funeral. Burial will take place at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona at 10am on Thursday, May 4.