Dennis "Big D" Drake Sr.

In loving memory of Dennis, "Big D", Drake Sr., 51, of Pinellas Park, FL, who passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 22, 2014 at Northside Hospital. Born in Akron, Ohio, he was preceded in death by his mother Barbara Norton, step-father Walter Norton, father Sonny Drake and step-mother Carolyn Drake. He lived most of his life in Pinellas County.

Dennis was a believer in Jesus Christ, as demonstrated by his very giving and loving heart. He attended First Baptist Church of Indian Rocks, and he was a former President and passionate member of the Suncoast Brotherhood, Pinellas chapter. His life's work included giving to children and people in need, being a master craftsman, and a foundation repair contractor. He enjoyed riding his motorcycles, fishing, horseshoes, chess, recreational water sports, and hosting picnics for both family and dear friends.

Dennis was an extremely loving and proud father. He is survived by his son Dennis L. Drake, Jr. and daughter-in-law Corinne Drake, daughter Lisa A. Drake, son Matthew L. Drake and daughter-in-law Amanda R. Drake, as well as step-daughter Jamie Drake. He was also a proud grandfather to Michael S. Loy, Jr. and Jaxson L. Loy, Eliana R. Drake, and step-granddaughters Katelynn F. Drake, Sarah M. Curry and Leah R. Curry. He is also survived by his sisters Terry Redd and Debbie Mielke, his brother Danny Drake, stepbrothers Walter Rourke and Derrick Norton, as well as, stepsister Denise Kilpatrick. Other surviving family members include Faith A. Drake, Stella Price and his best friend and soul mate, Terry Harden.

The family welcomes all who knew and loved Dennis for a memorial service and celebration of life beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 3, 2014. The viewing and service will be held in the Worship Center at the First Baptist Church of Indian Rocks, followed by a procession to Moss Feaster Serenity Gardens Memorial Park in Largo. A reception will be held at the Porpoise Pub, 8701 Seminole Blvd. Largo, FL 33772 following the interment.

In lieu of flowers, if you would like to honor Dennis' life and memory with a gift, the family will be making a donation to a children'' charity in his name following the service.