On the morning of Sept. 29, William David Drake, loving husband and devoted father of two, was taken from his family at the age of 34.
Will was born on Jan. 13, 1986, in Minnesota to David and Theresa. He grew up in Charlottesville, Va., before attending Virginia Tech where he met the love of his life, Catherine. They graduated together in 2008 and returned to the campus the following year for their wedding. Will continued his academic pursuits in urban planning from the Virginia Tech graduate program.
Will and Catherine shared their love of joys for their puppy, Ernie, music (especially drumming), and writing. In the course of their relationship, they found happiness in new hobbies together, in cooking, travel and ultimately their true lives’ passion: their growing family.
Arya was born in the fall of 2013 when she was welcomed by her exhausted mom and rendered her dad so proud that he was made of little more than a smile and wonder-filled eyes. Will effortlessly assumed his new name, “Daddy,” and wore it with pride. Together, they made new friends and memories in their neighborhood. Their family grew again in the summer of 2017 when Asher was born. Will once again glowed with joy and found even more love to share.
As the last chapter of Will’s life unfolded, his duty to his family never wavered, but his time with them concluded too soon. Will will be remembered by everyone he touched and through those happy memories can remain with his children.
Will leaves behind, in addition to his wife and children, his father David, his mother Theresa, his sisters Lauren and Emarie, his brother Ben and an extended family and a host of friends.
In lieu of flowers, friends can show support for Catherine, Arya and Asher by visiting https://www.mealtrain.com/trains/kl8qq2. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled in the not-too-distant future. Arrangements by McCoy Funeral Home, Blacksburg.
