CAMBRIDGE SPRINGS — Ivan Terrill Drake, 81, of 25523 Drake St., Cambridge Springs, died at his home on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009, after a period of failing health.
Ivan was born on April 4, 1928, a son of the late Andrew and Hazel Terrill Drake on the family dairy farm located in Drakes Mills, Cambridge Township, and had lived there all of his life.
After graduating from Cambridge Springs High School, Ivan dedicated himself to working the farm together with his parents and older brother, Arden. He and his brother complemented each other as partners and best friends over the years and reputedly never had a quarrel. In earlier years they raised Guernsey cattle, but later they raised registered Holsteins. As the years went by and the need came to downsize, the cattle were sold at three different times, the last being in 1979. Over those years the farm was recognized on numerous occasions as one of the best in Crawford County.
Ivan was known as a cattle expert and as a skilled handyman. He had a strong faith in the Lord Jesus and lived his life accordingly. He worked hard, never complained and was always satisfied and grateful with what he had.
Ivan leaves as survivors his brother, Arden; and three nieces, Louise Uhlman and her husband, Don, of Cambridge Springs, Janet Morton and her husband, Marvin, of Cambridge Springs, and Ginger Beck and her husband, Jim, of Cambridge Springs; and a nephew, Tom Drake and Kris Lechefsky of Edinboro. Also surviving are many great-nieces and nephews, and great-great-nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Harold Drake.
Friends may call at Van Matre Family Funeral Home, 335 Venango Ave., Cambridge Springs, today from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. and are invited to attend the service there on Thursday morning at 11. The Rev. Ron Kennedy, pastor of Draketown Christian Church, will officiate.
Interment will be in Venango Cemetery.
Memorials gifts may be made to the American Cancer Society, Crawford Unit, 464 Pine St., Meadville, Pa. 16335-2975.
