John Marshall Drake

John Marshall Drake, 64, of Frankfort, Kentucky passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 31st, 2023, at his home surrounded by family. John was born on June 4th, 1958 to Robert "Bob" and Eloise Drake in Somerset, Kentucky. John graduated from Somerset High School in 1976 and then went on to study Mining & Civil Engineering at the University of Kentucky. Upon graduation, he pursued a career as a Civil Engineer with the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and after 40-years of service, he retired from the Kentucky Department of Parks. Not content to stay at home, his retirement was short lived and he started working for the Department of Transportation soon after and continued to work there until his death. John and Libbie Poindexter were married in 1988. They started their family in downtown Frankfort before moving to a house he designed in Two Creeks subdivision. The family always found pleasure in traveling together over the years, from Spain, to Malaysia, and in their local travel of John’s work trips to state parks across Kentucky. John especially cherished their annual trips to Pawley’s Island, South Carolina, a sacred place as his family had vacationed there for over 60 years. John was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in November of 2021. Following his diagnosis, John decided he wanted to make the most of his time left on earth. He vacationed at Pawley’s Island one last time. Then, in the fall, he spent two weeks traveling across northern France and Paris with his children. Together they walked the beaches of Normandy, visited Impressionist museums, and took scenic drives through the French countryside. Finally, in the winter, he became a ‘Paw Paw’to his first grandchild, Miles, who brought him infinite joy and too many belly naps to count. John had many special nights on his screened in porch with old friends and family. John is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Libbie; his children, Hannah Drake, Megan (Robbie) Gorham, and Palmer Drake; his grandson, Miles Gorham; and his siblings, Robert Drake, Jim (Lee Ann) Drake, Nancy (Doug) Starcher; and several nieces and nephews. John was a member of First United Methodist Church where services will be held on Wednesday, June 7th, at 211 Washington Street, Frankfort, Kentucky. Visitation will take place from 1-3 P.M. A memorial service at the church will follow at 3 P.M., with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to: Bluegrass Care Navigators or First United Methodist Church of Frankfort.

John Marshall Drake

June 4, 1958 - May 31, 2023