Donald Lee "Donnie" Drake Jr

In Loving Memory of Donald Lee "Donnie" Drake, Jr. Donald Lee Drake, Jr., known to most as "Donnie" or simply "Drake," passed away on June 10, 2026, in Loomis, California, at the age of 61. Born on July 28, 1964, Donnie lived a life full of hard work, laughter, music, friendship, and love for his family. He spent more than 30 years working as a G.C. Lineman for PG&E before retiring after a 40-year career. He took great pride in his work and the life he built through dedication, grit, and perseverance. One of Donnie's greatest accomplishments came later in life when he achieved eight years of sobriety. Through Alcoholics Anonymous, he found community, purpose, and a way to give back to others. He served as a recurring secretary for the Men's AA group in Rocklin and was proud to support others on their own journeys. To know Donnie was to know someone who rarely sat still. Whether he was working on a project in the garage, perfecting his backyard, tending to a garden full of tomatoes, cucumbers, and more jalapeños than anyone could reasonably eat, he was always tinkering with something. He loved camping, fishing, shooting, riding his motorcycle, attending hot-rod car shows, taking drives through the foothills, and spending time outdoors. Music was woven into nearly every chapter of Donnie's life. A drummer at heart, he spent his younger years setting up his drum kit on the front porch, putting speakers outside, turning the volume up, and drumming along to his favorite rock records for the entire neighborhood to hear. He loved rock, blues, and soul music, attended countless concerts, and could often be found air-guitaring his way through a favorite song. When Donnie listened to music, everyone knew it. Whether he was driving his truck down the road or working on a project in the garage, the speakers were on and the music was loud. He introduced his children to the music he loved and created countless memories through concerts, road trips, and shared CD’s. Music wasn't just something Donnie listened to—it was part of who he was. Donnie was known for his outgoing personality, quick wit, and answering every call with his signature “Shakeys Pizza”. He loved hosting barbecues, feeding family and friends, and sharing quotes from his favorite movies. He made some of the best baby back ribs around and was famous for eating enough tacos to make everyone else at the table question their life choices. He also never missed an opportunity to tell a good story, crack a joke, or make someone laugh. While he was rough around the edges in all the ways that made him uniquely himself, those closest to him knew a thoughtful man who gave good advice, loved deeply, and cared fiercely about his family. Donnie was preceded in death by his parents, Donald Lee Drake and Lila Joyce Drake, and his brother, Travis Drake, along with many dear friends and family he lost throughout the years. He is survived by his children, Levi Richards, Kayla Drake, Kyle Ballance, and Nicolas Drake; his siblings, Shannon Drake and Larry "Randy" Drake; extended family members; his dog Kira and cat Boots; and members of the AA community whose lives he touched. If you spent five minutes with Donnie, you would likely remember his humor. If you spent an afternoon with him, you'd remember his stories. If you knew him for a lifetime, you'd remember his loyalty, his generosity, and how deeply he loved his kids. A Celebration of Life will be held in Grand Junction, Colorado, on Saturday, July 11, 2026. In true Donnie fashion, guests are encouraged to wear their favorite band t-shirt as we gather to share stories, enjoy barbecue, and celebrate a life lived loudly, honestly, and unapologetically. In lieu of gifts, flowers may be sent to the family, and donations to assist with memorial and family expenses are appreciated. Rock on, Dad. We'll think of you every time we hear a great song.

Donald Lee "Donnie" Drake Jr

July 28, 1964 - June 10, 2026