Drake, Gary
From the moment he landed on this earth, Gary has always lived to the beat of his own drum. A lover of all things speedy and wild, he earned the nickname fast Eddie as a young boy. He certainly continued to earn and perpetuate this term of endearment as the years went on. The only thing he ever did slow was pass away.
From camping in Kilbear, to listening to music, to cycling from Stayner to Meaford with small kids in tow, to bonfires, to snowmobiling and all things outdoors, Gary always found a reason to laugh and find an adventure. He lived life fast and fully. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family.
Gary leaves behind in life and love Teresa – who will most certainly insure that there is never a lack of love, food or eyes on his kids and grandkids. Although living not far from another, it was a trip to Cuba that leads to their first meeting. After a wonderful few days together before heading back to Canada, the ever-charming Gary sealed the deal by yelling “If no one has told you they love you today, let me be the first.” From there they built a home (and tiki bar) together with the cherished pup Schulumpa.
He was a proud Dad of his “Gabbagoops”, Nicole (Peter), Alicia (Ryan), Amanda (Joshua), Adam, Jordon (Robert). Adventurous “Papa Drake” to his grandkids, Cambria Jack & Henry.
The youngest son of Nancy Drake and the late Walter Drake, beloved brother of Joan Seymour, Gregory Drake, Collen VanHorne (Gord), Maureen Sprayson (Frank) Suzanne Hoppie, Jeannie Abel (John), and Karen Doucet (Ivan). Predeceased a brother, Michael Drake (Susan) and Brother-in-law Larry, Uncle Gary to many nieces and nephews. Dear friend and member of the Singhampton Gentlemen’s Club (SGC), alongside Brain Currie and Rodney Patterson.
He encouraged his kids from a young age to fart, burp and pick their nose. They were taught how to make soup, play cards, start a fire, and enjoy nature never to trust a toaster oven, to put your napkin on your lap in a restaurant and not to take life to seriously. Gary passed his unique palate down to his kids… lover of most foods and all things pickled.
On January 19, 2019, Gary was enjoying a visit with family on the beautiful North Shore of New Brunswick. After a freak snowmobile accident, he battled for almost three months. His strength and fortitude surprised medical staff throughout his journey, but particularly in his final few weeks. Where many would have succumbed earlier, Gary carried on against the odds and leaves us with the message that we are full of strength, and to never give up.
Many thanks to Brad Guitard and Drake Hickey, and the entire Belledune Fire Department and RCMP, The Moncton Hospital, including Dr. Adams and the NICU staff, Kevin Black, and the numerous friends and families that shared prayers, encouragement and support throughout this journey. Teresa flew to be with Gary and drove through an East Coast snowstorm to get to him, and was at his side every step of the way. Their love was truly special and our family will never forget the dedication they had to one another and their unconditional love.
Gary’s remains will be sprinkled throughout nature, and with his family. Don’t worry, he’s been cremated first.
He loved us all and left us too soon.
Also, if you’re missing your lighter, it’s probably in his pocket.
A celebration of life will take place on June 15, 2019 at 11 a.m. with The Rev. Ray Dobson will be doing a small service at the Singhampton Community Center. The address is 6 Milltown Rd.
