Max E. Drake

Max E. Drake, 101, of Berne, Indiana passed away on Friday morning, January 3, 2025, at Swiss Village in Berne, Indiana. 

He was born on December 19, 1923, in Adams County, Indiana to the late Louie C. and Orie H. (Richards) Drake. Max was united in marriage to Virginia Mae Heller on December 22, 1946, in Berne Indiana and she preceded him in death on January 3, 2010.

He served his country during WWII in the United States Navy as an Aviation Machinist Mate First Class from 1943, until his honorable discharge on April 13, 1946. 

Max was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church where he taught Sunday School, and was a trustee for many years. He was also a member of the Indiana Freemasons in Decatur, and a Decatur Lodge #571 member since 1955.

He was employed at General Electric in Decatur for over 40 years where he inspected and tested motors. He retired in April 1986. 

Max enjoyed traveling, painting, and woodworking. He was an avid IU basketball fan, and enjoyed watching the Chicago White Sox. 

Survivors include his daughter-in-law, Kathi Drake of Berne, Indiana; granddaughter, Alison (Matt) Mishler of Noblesville, Indiana; grandson, Adam (Christina) Drake of Royal Oak, Michigan; and great-grandchildren, Drake & Ella Mishler.

Max was preceded in death by his son, Gregory Drake; three sisters, Betty Knittle, Shirley Schnepp, and Sherian Zeser; and two brothers, John & Don Drake. 

Private family services will be held and burial will be at M.R.E. Cemetery.

Preferred memorials can be given to Trinity United Methodist Church or Swiss Village.

Arrangements by Zwick & Jahn Funeral Homes, Yager-Kirchhofer Chapel of Berne, Indiana