Arthur Drake

Arthur E. Drake, 94, of Cheney, Washington passed away peacefully on September 22, 2019 of complications due to chronic heart failure at Cheney Care Center.  Art was born in St. Ignatius, Montana on November 26, 1924 to parents Guy William Drake and Charlotte “Lottie” Jane Orrison.   He graduated from St. Ignatius High School and stayed on the farm to become a successful farmer and rancher in the Mission Valley.  Along with his brother, Frank Drake, they milked dairy cattle for 18 years later changing over to raising 300 head of Angus cattle and growing crops.

On November 1, 1963, he and his high school sweetheart, Natalie Leishman Turner were married and together created a happy life on the farm.   In 1973, Art and Natalie moved to Hamilton, Montana where he was in housing construction.  In 1990 they moved to Cheney, Washington where they enjoyed retirement life on the golf course, travel, grandchildren, and good neighbors who became life-long treasured friends.

Art was known for his sharp memory even during his last stages in life, his rich knowledge of world history and politics, and deep love for his country.  He was one of the most patriotic men for not having served in the military.  He was a good neighbor and friend, volunteered his time for Meals on Wheels, and served meals to those in need at the Methodist food kitchen.

Art is preceded in death by his wife, Natalie Drake, including 9 brothers and sisters; Floyd, Harry, Mike, Frank, Dorothy, Violet, Helen, and Margaret.  He is survived by his step-daughter Robbie (Allen) Kolodejchuk of Columbia Falls, MT; grandaughters Molly (David) Tingley of Missoula, MT; Lexie (Chris) Gearhart of Columbia Falls, MT, and 3 great grandchildren; Reagan, Emmerson, and Sam.  He is also survived by numerous loving nieces, nephews as well as their children.

On behalf of the Drake family, we wish to express our deep appreciation to the health care providers and professionals who provided excellent care to Art over the years.  We especially give thanks for his personal care giver, Tena Kendrick.

Funeral services will be held at the Shrider-Thompson Funeral Home in Ronan, MT on Friday, October 4, 2019 at 1 pm.  Internment to follow at the Ronan Mountain View Cemetery.

Flowers may be sent to Shrider-Thompson Funeral Home, 419 Round Butte Road West, Ronan, MT.