Stephen 'Steve' A. Drake

Stephen Allen Drake, 82, passed away peacefully at his home in Georgetown surrounded by family on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at 11:40 am. He was born on September 10, 1941 in Paris, Illinois to Ernestine Drake. He attended Paris High School and soon after graduation he proudly served his country in the United States Army where he was stationed in Korea. Upon returning home, he married Belva Luther on June 17, 1967 and the two would go on to share a wonderful 56 years together before his passing.

Steve was a devout Catholic and attended services in Georgetown and Westville as his health permitted. He retired after 40 years of service from Danville Metal Stamping, where he enjoyed his work as a welder and in maintenance. Though retired, Steve was never one to stay still for long. He kept busy at the University of Illinois helping with ballgames, at Blacks Hardware store, as well as Enterprise. He loved football, especially when he was able to root for his favorite team; the Chicago Bears. In their younger years, he and Belva enjoyed line dancing together. In more recent years, Steve loved being in the stands to cheer on his grandchildren at their various sporting events.

Steve is survived by his beloved wife, Belva Drake; his daughter Michele (Chris) Sollars; and two grandchildren Gabrielle (Dillon Hughes) Pearl and Wyatt Pearl. He is also survived by Cynthia Johnson. He was preceded in death by his mother Ernestine Kelsheimer, numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A visitation will be held from 10 am 12pm on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at Sunset Funeral Homes Houghton- Leasure Chapel, located at 200 E. West Street in Georgetown. A funeral service celebrating his life will take place at 12 pm at the funeral home with a recitation of the Rosary beginning at 11:30 am. Father Saupp will be officiating. He will be laid to rest with military honors in Georgetown Cemetery following the services. Online condolences and fond memories can be shared with his family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

Services Visitation Saturday December 9, 2023 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM Sunset's Houghton-Leasure Funeral Chapel 200 E. West Street Georgetown, , IL 61846 Recitation of the Rosary Saturday December 9, 2023 11:30 AM Sunset's Houghton-Leasure Funeral Chapel 200 E. West Street Georgetown, , IL 61846 Funeral Service Saturday December 9, 2023 12:00 PM Sunset's Houghton-Leasure Funeral Chapel 200 E. West Street Georgetown, , IL 61846