Robert Leon Drake

Born in Mancelona on April 15, 1923, Bob went to meet his maker and join loved ones on August 19, 2015 at the age of 92. Following graduation from East Lansing High School, 40 months in WWII, and graduation from M.S.C. and the U of M Law School, he served in various capacities in the probate and juvenile (now family) courts. As a judge he initiated programs and facilities for the mentally ill and juveniles, including Highfields, a program providing positive alternatives for youth and families.

For ten years he served as state court administrator for the probate and juvenile courts during which he initiated rules for uniform procedure and training for judges and court staff, which continue as part of the Michigan Court Rules and the Michigan Judicial Institute.

His greatest joy came from his family, a highlight being a 20-day trip hauling a trailer, his wife and three children to Disneyland with stops along the way. He also loved time with them at their retirement residence built on weekends over many years on Glen Lake. Although a lawyer and long-time judge, he loved the creativity of carpentry, art, and as a would-be jazz piano player-challenging his Basement Five band friends by playing everything in E-flat.

If asked, he expressed his best decision was (in 1950) to marry Jane Hootman of East Lansing. She passed on in August 2013. They enjoyed a marriage of 63 years, during which he wrote her a poem every year for her birthday. Unknown to Bob, she saved them, and a scrapbook she kept, starting with their first date, telling her daughter of their existence and to find them; that they were far more important than any jewelry.

Surviving to cherish Bob’s memory are children, Thomas (Carolee) Drake, and Leslie (David) Carleton; grandchildren, Leighanne (Matt) LaMarre, Aaron (Amanda) Drake, Sarah (Mike) DiLaura, Joan Carleton; and four great-grandchildren. Bob and Jane were preceded in death by an also treasured son, John.

Services will be held Thursday, September 10, 2015 at 11:00 am at The People’s Church, East Lansing. Donations may be made in his memory to Highfields, 5123 Old Plank Road, Onondaga, MI 49264.

The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes East Lansing Chapel. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.greastlansing.com