Obituary of John Edward Drake

John E. Drake Sidney, NY John E. Drake 88 of Sidney passed away January 2, 2015 at his home. He was born June 15, 1926, son of the late John M. and Ethelyn (Kahn) Drake in Afton. John attended school in Oneonta and enlisted in the United States Navy in 1943. He served his country until 1946 as a cook on a destroyer. He was honorably discharged and began working for the Spaulding Bakery where he met his wife, Patricia Clapper. John was a great stock car enthusiast. He drove the racing circuit for many years, winning trophies at many of the New York and East Coast race tracks. Upon retiring from racing, John owned his own milk transportation business; he ran milk for many of the local farmers. During this time he married his second wife, Janice Rampe. John was an avid bowler, He loved to hunt and fish. He was a member of the Masonville Rod & Gun Club, the Sidney Elks, The Eagles, Sidney Moose Club, Sidney VFW and the Sidney American Legion. He is survived by: Daughter, Eleanor Hephner, adopted son, Craig Heaney, Son, John M. Drake Sister, Ellen Burdick, Brother, Robin Drake 5 Grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 10, 2015 at 11:00 AM at C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel 21 Main St. Sidney. Fr. James Shevlin of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Sidney will officiate. Burial will be in West Oneonta Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sidney American Legion Union St. Sidney, NY 13838 Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.landersfh.com Arrangements are under the direction of C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel Sidney.