Kenneth E. Drake

Kenneth E. Drake of Mays Landing, N.J., died unexpectedly at his residence on Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2011. He was 65.

He was born in Greenport, Long Island, on Oct. 26, 1946. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elwin and Jane Drake, and his son Kenneth Drake Jr.

After graduating from high school, Ken was drafted into the United States Army, where he earned the ranking of captain and served as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam. After returning from Vietnam, Ken pursued his passion for art and became an art teacher, working at Hammonton High School for 27 years. After retirement he continued to teach as a professor at ACCC. Ken will be remembered for his great sense of humor, his appreciation of art, his passion for teaching, his service to the United States Army and, most especially, for the love of his family.

He is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Jane (Callan) Drake; his daughter, Kimberly (Drake) Sackowicz of Mays Landing; his sons Vincent T. Accardi of Absecon, Kenneth E. Drake III of EHT and Timothy Klay Drake at home; his two brothers, Richard Drake of Virginia and Robert Drake of New Jersey; his sister Jane (Drake) England of Florida; his grandchildren, Krystal, Christopher and Kyle Sackowicz; his many nieces and nephews; and countless loved ones.

Services were held on Dec. 27, 2011. Interment was at the Atlantic County Veterans Cemetery in Estell Manor, N.J.

Memorial contributions can be sent to Timothy Klay Drake Educational Fund, Ocean City Home Bank, 5401 Harding Highway, Mays Landing, NJ 08330

Condolences may be sent to the family at boakesfuneralhome.com.

This is a paid notice.