Vernon Drake

Vernon S. Drake, 91, Staples, died Sunday, April 1st at Lakewood Health System Hospital, Staples. Vern’s funeral service will be at 11 AM, Thursday, April 5th at Faith Lutheran Church, with Pastor Carl Larson officiating. A visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be at Evergreen Hill Cemetery.

Vernon Stanley Drake was born approximately March 10, 1927 in Staples. Vernon was abandoned in Staples at about 10 days of age and was adopted by Victor and Clara (Berg) Drake. He spent his entire life in Staples, graduating from Staples High School in 1945, after which he spent time in the US Army and nine years in the Army Reserves, and was discharged with the rank of Sgt 1st Class. He then attended the Minnesota School of Agriculture, graduating in 1949; and then attended the St. Cloud Business College, graduating in 1951. He married Marlys Paulson on June 16, 1957 at Faith Lutheran Church in Staples. He was employed with the Northern Pacific/Burlington Northern Railroad, retiring in 1989. During this time, he was also the manager of the local credit union for 18 ½ years, full time for 9 years while on a leave of absence from the railroad. Vernon was also the local area gunsmith for over 50 years and operated a gun repair and archery service in his home. While able he enjoyed flying, music, fishing, target shooting and hunting, especially bow and muzzleloader hunting for deer, which with the help of his son, Paul, he did right to the last season before his passing. He was an active member of Faith Lutheran Church and also taught the AARP 55 Alive driver program for many years, as well being a Minnesota Firearms instructor for 50 years and a Minnesota certified bow hunter instructor.

He is survived by his wife: Marlys; daughter: Ann (Jon) Acord of Rugby, ND; two sons: Paul of Staples and Keith (Vickie) of Clear Lake; three grandchildren: Heather (Richard) Stevens, Ryan and Felicia Drake; great grandchildren: Avalyne MaryAnn, Jarrett Vernon and Darrion Drake Stevens.

He was preceded in death by his adoptive parents; infant son, Carl Robert; infant granddaughter: Karen Duncan; sister-in-law: Frances Brouke; and brothers-in-law: Gilmore Land and Millard Brouke. Memorials are preferred to Faith Lutheran Church, Staples. Brenny Funeral Chapel, Staples has been entrusted with arrangements. www.brenny.com