PAUL ROGER DRAKE
April 17, 1951 - January 29, 2012
SANBORNTON, NH - Paul Drake, a cabinetmaker, apprenticed under Bill “Hoppy” Hopkinson. A lifelong resident of Sanbornton, New Hampshire, Paul was accomplished in his trade and was commissioned for custom work. His passion for antiques increased the caliber of his art. Paul was predeceased by his wife Denise Van Lear, who died in 1996. He was 60.
Paul’s life began in Laconia, born April 17, 1951, son of the late Lester Eugene Drake and surviving mother, Catherine Margaret (O'Connor) Drake. One of his passions was sled dog racing with Jennifer Drake, Paul’s daughter from his first marriage to Katherine Dodge. They spent years participating in races throughout New England, New York and Canada winning medals and making friends as members of the New England Sled Dog Club.
Paul loved a good treasure hunt, stopping at yard sales, frequenting flee markets and browsing antiques shops. His curiosity was never quenched. He was always rooting for his favorite New England teams, the Patriots and the Red Sox and enjoyed watching games with family, friends and his dog, Molly.
Predeceased by his first brother Dennis, Paul grew up surrounded by the love of his siblings. His sister, Patricia (Lacroix) Merriam brought him nieces and nephews: Janet (Lacroix) Robitaille, Lisa (Lacroix) MacLenna, Terri Lacroix, David Lacroix and Mike Lacroix. Paul spent a lot of time with his brother, Allen Drake, who shared his love for woodworking and sled dog racing. His brother, Edward Drake and wife, Carrie (Cote), brought Paul a sense of pride through their son, Nathan Johnson, who enjoyed a successful career in the navy.
Paul was a dedicated father, a loving son and brother, and a loyal friend. He will be missed by all.
Calling hours will be held on Saturday, February 11, 2012 from 4:00-7:00PM in the Carriage House of the Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, NH.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the New Hampshire Humane Society, 1305 Meredith Center Road, PO Box 572, Laconia, NH 03247.
If there was one thing he taught his daughter, it was that laughter is an instant vacation. All who knew Paul will remember most his infectious laugh.
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, N.H. is assisting the family with the arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial go to www.wilkinsonbeane.com .