Robert Lee Drake

Robert Lee Drake, 82, of Cambria, passed away Saturday, November 24, 2018, at Memorial Hospital in Carbondale, surrounded by his family.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 28, 2018, at the First Apostolic Church of Cambria, with his son-in-law, Rev. R.H. Chitwood officiating. Burial will be in Blairsville Cemetery with military rites by the Carterville American Legion, Herrin. V.F.W. and American Legion and Navy Honors Ritual Team.  Visitation will begin at 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, at the church.

Memorial contributions are preferred and may be made to the First Apostolic Church of Cambria.

Robert was born on March 28, 1936, in Carbondale, to LaVern and Rosamond (Young) Drake. On December 31, 1953, he was united in marriage with Norma Hall. Together they have shared 64 wonderful years.

He is survived by his wife, Norma Drake of Cambria; daughters, Paula (Rev. R.H.) Chitwood of Cambria and Kim (Steve) Loyd of Columbia, Missouri; sons, Kevin (Debbie) Drake of Cambria and Robbie Drake of Hafer; grandchildren, Kaci (Keenan) Clark of Carterville, Michelle Drake of Cambria, Megan (Zac) Cram of Columbia, Missouri, Fayth (Rev. Charles) Geuin of Center, Texas, and Grace (Zach) Cox of Cambria; great-grandchildren, Elsie, Olin, Caplan, and Clemmie Clark, Silas Cram, Drake and Declan Geuin, and Juddsyn and Jennings Cox; brother, Richard (Donna) Chambers of Springfield, Illinois; and many friends and extended family.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents; step-father, Cecil Chambers; sister, Linda Malone, infant sister, Judith Drake; and grandson, Michael Drake.

He honorably served our country in the U.S. Navy from 1953 -1957.

Robert retired as a Sergeant from the SIU Police Department in 1990, after more than 30 years of service.

He was a charter member of the First Apostolic Church of Cambria where he faithfully served in many roles including Trustee and Youth Leader.

Robert enjoyed golfing and hunting, but the love he had for his family was immeasurable.

Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville is in charge of arrangements. 

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