David Lee Drake of Traverse City, born November 13, 1969, went home to his Lord and savior early Tuesday morning, October 23, 2018. He was 48 years old.

Dave is survived by his wife, Debra Drake; daughters Marissa (Zac) Boswell and Miranda (Josh) Dyer; grandchildren Emma, Scotty, Avery, Sophia, Brayden and Elijah; parents Billie and Charlotte Drake and Dow and Sally Swope; brothers Billie (Colleen) Drake and Rick Drake; sister Marge Drake; sister-in-law Tracy (Jensen) Kurtz; uncle Jim (Lori) Manville, and many nieces and nephews. He is welcomed into Heaven by his grandfather Ralph Manville, grandmother Marjorie Manville, aunt Sharlene Manville Speir, paternal grandparents Paul and Deveres Campbell and Amos Drake.

Dave was a devoted follower of Jesus, a loving husband, a caring son and brother, and an incredible father and grandfather. He was a deeply generous and loyal friend to all who were lucky enough to know him.

Dave was baptized at East Bay Calvary and only grew stronger in his faith as the years progressed, becoming a devoted member of the church. He brought his parents and grandchildren to the faith as well. On one of the proudest, happiest days of Dave's life, he was witness to his father Billie's baptism at the age of 73.

He played baseball and football for the Traverse City Trojans, winning the state football championship in the '88 / '89 season. After graduation in 1989, he joined the Marine Corps.

He met the love of his life, Debra, in Traverse City on September 18, 1990. They married on April 6, 1991, and Dave soon became known as Dad to not one, but two daughters, Marissa and Miranda.

Dave was known for his work ethic, and together with his life and business partner Deb, started TSR Lawn & Landscape in 1999. It was a company that grew to employ hundreds of people over its almost twenty years in business, and a two-time recipient of the Traverse City Chamber of Commerce Top Ten Small Business of the Year Award.

In addition to his faith, Dave had a genuine curiosity of the world and traveled to countless places with his wife, daughters and parents, always trying new foods and immersing in the cultures. His sense of humor was always present, and he brought joy and laughter to every gathering. He had a true passion for adventure - so much so that at age 43 he earned his pilot license and went on to spend countless hours in the sky over Grand Traverse County.

"Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." Psalm 23:6

A celebration of life is planned for Sunday, October 28 at East Bay Calvary Church, 2225 Hammond Road, Traverse City 49686. There will be a visitation with family from 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm with service to follow at 3:00 pm.