Herbert Earl Drake, 92, died early Monday morning, May 2, 2016 at Wilson Hospital, Johnson City, New York, from pneumonia and heart complications. He is survived by his daughters Terry Lynn Drake and Peggy Drake-Brown; son Brad Drake; son-in-law Gregory Hodge; and grandsons, John and Trey Leonard.
Born February 1st, 1924 in Metuchen, New Jersey, the son of George and Minnie Dilts, Mr. Drake was a veteran of the United States Navy and served as a torpedo specialist from 1943 through 1946. In 1960, he moved to New Berlin, NY and began operating the H Bar D Ranch Camp with his then wife, Helen Lenora Drake. Specializing in horsemanship for children, Herb and Helen shared their love for animals and wildlife with hundreds of children over the many years the camp was active.
Herb was an accomplished hunter who thrived in the outdoors and nature. He spent time as a Deputy with the Chenango County Sheriff’s Department and loved country dancing with longtime companion, Sarah Johnson, at Touch of Texas in Norwich, NY. In addition to his love of country music, Herb was a skilled harmonica player and frequently surprised friends and family with impromptu performances.
A memorial service to celebrate Herbert’s life will be held at the residence of Terry Drake and Gregory Hodge, H Bar D Ranch, on Saturday, May 7th at 7:00pm. All are welcome. The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be sent to Wolf Mountain Nature Center, Hopkins Crandall Road, Smyrna, N.Y. 13464, or the wildlife charity of choice.