Obituary of James R. Drake

James R. Drake, 85, of Odessa, passed away on Sunday, February 21, 2021. He was born in Montour Falls on June 21, 1935, the son of the late Leland and Vivian (Sucher) Drake. Jim graduated from Odessa High School and Alfred University. He served with the US Navy from 1953-1957. Jim retired from Shepard Niles where he worked as a draftsman for many years. He was a member of St. John's Episcopal Church, Odessa Fire Department, Mechanics Club and Soaring Eagles Golf Course. Jim was an avid bowler and golfer, enjoying these sports as much for the friendships he made as for the competition. Above all things, Jim was a family man. His unconditional love and devotion to his wife, children, and grandchildren was unwavering. Jim enjoyed sports of all kinds, especially those played by his children and grandkids. He spent countless hours on the sidelines cheering for and supporting his loved ones. Jim is survived by his wife of 61 years, Lois F. (Dean) Drake; children, Wendy (Steve) Weber and James R. Drake, Jr. both of Elmira, and Michael S. (Elaine) Drake of Glenville, NY; son-in-law, O. Kenneth Peterson of Burdett; two sisters, Marcia Dimick of Trumansburg and Gail Crowe of Mocksville, NC; six grandchildren, Kevin (Mindy), Megan (Ryan), Matthew, Ella, Andrea (Cody) and Hunter (Ashley); ten great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a daughter, Tammi Peterson in 2009 and great grandson, Colson James in 2018. Relatives and friends are invited to call on Friday, February 26, 2021 from 1-2 pm at Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls. A memorial service for family and close friends will follow at 2:00 pm. Burial will be in Highland Cemetery in the spring with military honors. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Odessa Fire Department, 300 Main St., Odessa, NY 14869 or the American Legion Post 676, 2532 Steam Mill Rd., Odessa, NY 14869.