Theodore Perry Drake, 1923-2003, Laurie

Theodore Perry Drake, 80, died Thursday, Dec. 4, 2003, at his home near Laurie. Mr. Drake was born Feb. 24, 1923, in Strausburg. He was preceded in death by his three sisters, Ida White, Effie Allen and Edith Staley, and four brothers, Carl, Wess, Howard and Joseph LeClaire.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Harriett, two daughters, June Lowry, of Raytown, and Joan Drake, of DeSoto; a brother, Julius LeClaire, of Calhoun, six grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Mr. Drake served in the Navy during World War II, seeing combat action in the Pacific Theater, and was recalled to duty during the Korean War. Mr. Drake was a retired drywall contractor/builder for 25 years in the Kansas City and Raytown area, and 10 years at the Lake of the Ozarks. He enjoyed fishing and hunting, flying as a private pilot, and was author of the book, "The Boy Who Grew Up in the Ozarks."

Memorial services were Monday at the Kidwell-Garber Luarie-Sunrise Beach Chapel in Laurie, with the Rev. Jim Sutherland officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to Citizens Memorial Hospice, 1500 N. Oakland, Bolivar 65613. Arrangements are under the direction of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Laurie.