Douglas Steven Drake, 62, a long-time resident of the Wood River Valley, died Wednesday, August 7, 2019 at St. Luke’s Wood River Hospital from cirrhosis of the liver.
He was born December 18, 1956 in Gooding, Idaho to Richard Dallas and Sally Jeanne Drake, and attended schools everywhere. He loved the mountains, and the colors the valley was famous for. He lived in various other towns but always said the mountains would make him come home.
He served in the US Army and received a medal for his rifle skills as a sniper.
Douglas dabbled in many avenues but none seemed to be his perfect fit. He dealt in antiques, paintings, drawings and writing many books. He loved the Wood River Valley and the beauty it offered. He was an enthusiastic outdoorsman. He loved to be outside in nature and was an all-around complete mountain man. He had a love for art, poetry, and culture. Douglas wrote his first children’s book in 1999. He was the best story teller. We will forever miss his voice and his passion for life.
As an avid dealer of antiques, Douglas never missed the antique shows held in the Valley. He was also very involved with the restoration of the Bellevue CocaCola signs. He was a good friend to the Mammoth Caves owner.
He will be forever missed by his daughter Jennifer (Shane) and grandchildren Alex, Nova, Kota, Brooke, Hollee and Lillee; his daughter Christina (Kolby) and grandchildren Kolbahdiah and Timberlee all of Hailey; his son Jason (Amanda, ex-wife) and grandchildren Loralie, Jeramiah, Tyler, McKenna and Kinley of Burley; his brother Mike (Danielle) Drake and their children Josh and River of Boise; and his brother Kelly (Tonja) Drake and children Charles and Danny of Shoshone. His parents Richard and Sally Drake preceded him in death.
Douglas was a very loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend and brother. He has a love for animals and left behind his best friend Dude “Indie” who will be well taken care of. His family and friends will never forget him, his love and his warm heart. He knew everybody had weaknesses but he always saw the good in anyone. We love you Daddy forever and always.
A time of sharing and remembrance of his life was held on Monday, August 12 at the Wood River Chapel in Hailey. Please share a memory, photo or message for the family at www.woodriverchapel.com. Arrangements are under the care of Wood River Chapel of Hailey, Idaho.