Donald L. Dake

Donald Loyd Dake of Antioch, Tennessee, left his earthly home for his heavenly home on April 26, 2019, at the age of 87. Don was born on April 18, 1932, in Chickasha, Oklahoma, to George W. Dake and Martha Ovaline (Penny) Dake. He was the younger brother to Lavina (Dake) Woods, and Lorena (Dake) Flowers.

Don graduated from Ada High School in 1950. There he was an all-star track athlete setting state records in high hurdles. In service to his country, Don served in the Air Force from 1950-1954, including his service in the Korean War.

In April of 1952, Don met his soon to be bride, Vivian Jeanette Braden of Lake City, Tennessee. They married on September 20, 1952. Don and Jeanette had four children.

Don attended the Free Will Baptist Bible College in Nashville. There he studied theology and sang in the men’s quartet.

Don opened and managed numerous restaurants over the course of his working life. His greatest career success was when he opened Dake’s Pancake House in Newton, Kansas, in 1982. Over the course of 10 years, Don and Jeanette owned 5 successful restaurants in various cities located throughout Kansas.

Don was an adventurer at heart. He and Jeanette traveled often visiting most of the states, Europe, and Mexico. Several mission trips included visits to Honduras, Guatemala, Mexico, and Africa. Don had a compassionate heart and gave generously to those in need. His love for God was lived out by serving others.

He was preceded in death by his eldest son, Donald Dake Jr. Survived by his wife of nearly 67 years, Jeanette; children Doug Dake, Sharon Grocock (Steve), Kelly Brown (Robert), 14 grandchildren, and 34 great grandchildren. He was dearly loved by all.

We remember Don’s love and devotion to God, his wife, his family, and his country. We remember his great sense of humor and natural ability to tell a story. Don was a joy to be around, and he will be deeply missed by many. Don is an excellent example of a life well lived.

Gathering of family and friends will be held from 4:00-6:00 pm on Tuesday, April 30th at Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home with Celebration of Life immediately following at 6:00pm in Woodlawn’s Dignity Hall. Interment will be held on Wednesday, May 1st at 11:00 at the Middle Tennessee Veteran’s Cemetery 7931 McCrory Ln. Nashville, TN. In lieu of flowers, donations in Don’s name may be made to the Nashville Rescue Mission.