Obituary of Leo Otis Drake

Drake, Leo Otis- on July 30, 2008, 91, of Mill Neck, NY. Beloved husband of his late wife Tyyra for 64 years. Loving father of Dana S., Randall Scott (Joanne), and Tyyra Linnea Drake Westenberg (Bob). Cherished grandfather of Scott, Aryn, Ryan (Tiffany), and Amberlee. Proud great grandfather of Emily . Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. Proud Veteran of WWII serving with the United States Navy on several battleships including the USS North Carolina BB-55.He enlisted in the US navy on April 18, 1940 in Dallas, Texas. He was discharged on June 1, 1946. Last rank held, Chief Petty Officer. He served on the following ships: USS Saratoga 1940-1941, USS North Carolina (Plankowner) 1941-1944, USS Pastores 1944, USS Gilbert Islands (Plankowner) 1944-1946. "Old soldiers never die, they just run out of ammo!" Leo was dedicated to God, his family and his country. He loved his home in Mill Neck, his beloved dog Champagne, photography, Chinese food, the USS North Carolina BB55 and all of his friends and ship mates, the NY Yankees, John Wayne, politics and Ronald Regan. He was a historian and an expert on the Drake Family genealogy. He was a successful businessman and entrepreneur. His legacy will long be remembered, as will his beautiful smile and generous spirit. We will love you forever Dad. Visiting Oyster Bay Funeral Home , 261 South Street, Oyster Bay, NY on Sunday from 3-5 & 7-9 p.m. Funeral services Monday 11 a.m. at Oyster Bay Funeral Home Chapel. Interment Pinelawn Memorial Park.