ROCKPORT — Donald M. Drake, 92, passed into the arms of his Lord and Savior on Sunday, October 11, 2026 at the Sussman House, surrounded by his loving family.  

Don was born on September 4, 1934 in Rockland, Maine to Herman and Voney (Tolman) Drake. After losing his parents as a toddler, he was raised by his maternal grandparents, Fred Sr. and Maude (Webber) Tolman. An only child, Don grew up alongside his beloved aunts and uncles.

As a young man, Don loved to dance and was a talented skater on both ice and roller skates. Later, while raising three children with his wife, Barbara, he enjoyed boating, skiing, and snowmobiling with the whole family.

Don served his country in the United States Army and the National Guard. He was a lifetime member of Elks Lodge #1008 and a Freemason, belonging to Federal Lodge #6. He also attended West Rockport Baptist Church for many years.

Known for his strong work ethic, Don began working at a young age, delivering newspapers with his dog by his side. Over the years, he held various jobs, including clam digging and working in local factories and service stations. In 1958, he opened his first business in the automotive service industry, Union Street Exxon in Rockland. For the next 26 years, Don built a thriving business through hard work and integrity. He later purchased Creek Hill Service Center, where he continued working until his retirement in 1996.

Don had a love of competitive car racing and was an accomplished racer. His greatest victory was the North American Grand National Ice Racing Championship in 1973. He shared a special bond with his son, Donald Jr. (Donnie), due to their passion for car racing. Donnie passed away in 2015, and the family finds comfort in knowing Don and Donnie are reunited for eternity.

In 1956, Don married the love of his life, Barbara Thorndike. They were married for nearly 70 years, cherishing their time spent together. Don and Barbara traveled across the country many times in their RV, affectionately known as the“Papa Bus,” and created lasting friendships and priceless memories along the way. 

Don’s home on Norton Pond was his happy place. He could often be found riding his golf cart, tending to projects around the property, and appreciating the sights and sounds of life on the pond.

Predeceased by his son, Donald Jr., Don is survived by his wife, Barbara; his daughters, Debra Drake of Rockport, and Victoria Vlautin of Dana Point, California, and her husband John; four grandchildren, Christopher Lawton and his wife Sarah Wickenden, Drake Vlautin and his wife Jessica, Kaitlyn St. Thomas and her husband Vitaly, and William Vlautin; and 12 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Sussman House, 40 Anchor Drive, Rockport, Maine 04856, the Pope Memorial Humane Society, 25 Buttermilk Lane, Thomaston, Maine 04861, or the Camden Area District Nursing Association, P.O. Box 547, Camden, Maine 04843.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.longfuneralhomecamden.com. A private graveside service was held in the West Rockport Cemetery in Rockport. Arrangements are with the Long Funeral Home, 9 Mountain Street, Camden.