Marvin Mills Drake

Of Jackson, joined his beloved wife of 68 years, Shirley Drake in Heaven on Wednesday, August 5, 2020 at the age of 96. He is survived by his two sons, Timothy and Mark (Patricia) Drake; two grandchildren, Matthew and Megan Drake; brother, Jim (Carol) Drake; niece, Laurie (Kevin) Cunningham; nephew, Brian (Keira) Drake as well as loving family members and friends. Marvin was born in Jackson, Michigan on June 22, 1924 to Marvin and Vivian (Jones) Drake. Marvin graduated from Jackson High. He was drafted into the United States Army in January, 1943 as part of the largest contingent to leave Jackson during WWII. One of the Great Generation, he served in the European theater. Following his Honorable discharge, he returned to Michigan and was a 1950 graduate of Michigan State College. He and Shirley married on November 25, 1950 and together they raised a family in Plainwell. Marvin spent his career as an Accountant. He held the distinction of being one of the few to pass the CPA examination in the first sitting. He later partnered with his brother where he retired in 1986 from Drake Watters & Associates. Active and civic-minded, he served his community through the Lions Club until 2020. Marvin and Shirley spent nearly a dozen of their last years in the company and care of Vista Grande Villa. He was a talented musician and great singer. He enjoyed woodworking, camping and traveling the Country with his family. Marvin was a kind and loving gentleman. He will be greatly missed. A private family service will take place and he will be laid to rest beside his wife at Jones Cemetery with Military Honors.