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July 15, 1933 – February 27, 2025. Throughout his life Ben Drake was, at heart, a student and educator. From his high school days in Bronxville, NY, where he was raised, through college at Antioch in Ohio and the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, from his teaching at the University of Washington in Seattle to Kenyon College in Gambier, OH, Ben devoted his life to education.
Ben’s keen interest in learning and teaching continued as he worked as a community organizer at the Community Nutrition Institute, the Environmental Defense Fund, and the Highlander Center in Tennessee.
Until the last few days of his life, Ben lost himself in books and thought and the outdoors. He died after a short illness on February 27, 2025, at home in Peachtree City, GA, with family at his side. He was 91.
Born in Fort Mitchell, KY, on July 15, 1933, Ben was preceded in death by his parents Margaret Jenkins Drake and Lawrence Drake, brother Byron Drake, and sister Sheila Drake Andrews.
He is survived by his beloved partner Barbara Strome and their daughter Emily Christiansen and granddaughters Lauren and Kaylin; son Jesse (Mimi) Buck and grandchildren Ted, Perry, and Alaina of California; niece Lori Andrews of Tennessee and nephew Bruce Andrews of Alabama; goddaughter Kate Bassett of California; and many friends and family members throughout the country.
At Ben’s request, no community service is planned.
Bruce Kiracofe says
Ben was a long time river rattin’ amigo. He certainly did live life to the fullest, and was an inspiration to many. Condolences to Barbara, and to all his family and friends.
Janine Buehner says
Well, he was an inspiration for me! Always willing to listen and give words of encouragement. Happy and satisfied with his life and living. A very good friend, a good partner, a good Grandpa. I remember him taking me for a ride on his go-cart on a warm, sunny day, telling me about people he remembered, all with a beautiful smile on his face as we toured the go cart paths. Then he taught me to drive..,always a patient teacher!