Karen Drake

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Karen Drake, who departed this life on February 9, 2026 in Suttons Bay, MI, at the age of 71. Karen was born on January 15,1955 in Traverse City, MI, the daughter of Frederick and Fern Hawley (Steffens). Known for her warmth, generosity, and unwavering spirit, Karen touched the lives of everyone she met. She was a devoted wife, loving mother and Mimi, cherished family member, and loyal friend. On New Years Eve of 1970, Mark and Karen met and it was love at first sight. On June 21, 1975, they got married on a very hot afternoon. Mark and Karen celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2025 surrounded by family and close friends. Throughout her life, Karen was passionate about her farm. She and Mark dedicated 50 years to growing cherries, eventually establishing Stoney Point Orchards and later Cherry Beach Orchards. Always a hard worker and an inspiration to others, the farm grew over the years and became very successful. She and Mark were representatives for Michigan Farm Bureau and went to Washington, D.C. to advocate for the cherry industry. Known for her impressive gardening skills and orchard work, she and her sister and eventually her son and daughter, did the farmers markets in Grand Traverse and Leelanau counties. Over the years, their following grew and at times were doing six markets a week. It was a lot of hard work, but she enjoyed it very much, especially working with her children. Her farm and family were her life. Karen and Mark spent many winters in Florida. Karen was a very outdoors person and not a fan of winter, so as soon as the snow would fly, she would count the days until their departure. By the time she and Mark would return, they were both tanned a golden brown and she was ready for spring and getting back outside. Karen and her family did avid traveling over the years, covering most of the eastern part of the country. She wanted her children to enjoy camping and learning about their country’s history as well as having fun together. Every Sunday Karen would have the NASCAR race on. At one time, she knew each team, team number and driver. Over the years she and her family traveled around to and attended several races. Her favorite place to be for a race was Daytona. She and Mark traveled there for about 20 years. Quite the sportswoman and outdoor enthusiast, Karen couldn’t wait for deer season. The week leading up to opening day was spent preparing her rifle, getting her hunting clothes ready and watching the Outdoor Channel due to her buck fever. She also loved going morel mushroom hunting with her kids. Outside is where she always wanted to be. Karen is survived by her loving husband of 50 years Mark, children Melissa Drake (Raymond Monks) and Joshua Drake (Rachel), grandchildren Adelaide, Saylor and Dallis, and her brother Randy Hawley, as well as a host of friends who will miss her dearly. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Sandra Burkholder and her brother James Hawley. Karen’s family would like to thank AdvisaCare Home Health & Hospice for the excellent care they provided her. A celebration of life will be held on August 23, 2026 at 1pm at the farm at 1071 S Donnybrook Road in Suttons Bay. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Karen's life, share memories, and offer their condolences. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Salvation Army in Karen's honor.

Karen Drake

January 15, 1955 - February 9, 2026