Ralph N. Drake

Ralph N. Drake, 91, of Philo, passed away on January 24, 2026, at his residence, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 1, 1935, in Muskingum County and was a 1954 graduate of Homer Union High School in Morgan County.
Ralph proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps for three years during the Korean War. Following his military service, he began a long and dedicated career in law enforcement and public service. He worked as a game warden for the Ohio Division of Wildlife, later serving with the Columbiana County Sheriff’s Office. After returning to Muskingum County, Ralph was employed by the Muskingum County Sheriff’s Office and subsequently dedicated 23 years of service to the Muskingum County Prosecutor’s Office.
He was a member of several organizations, including FOP Lodge, Anchor 283, the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Association, and American Legion Post 29.
Ralph is survived by his wife of 66 years, Shirley (Winland) Drake; three sons, Ralph E. Drake of Philo, Timothy (Amy) Drake of Roseville, and Christopher (Jennifer) Drake of Hopewell; grandchildren, Toray Carrel, Hannah Morgan, Ben Drake, Ashley Drake, Michael Drake, and Douglas Drake; one great-grandchild, Laykin Starkey; and one sister, Martha Baker of Omaha, Nebraska.
In addition to his parents, Helen (Engle) and Ralph Drake, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Brenda Linscott; sisters, Katherine Anderson, Shirley McIntyre, and Nadine Snyder; and brothers, Allen Drake and Thomas Drake.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to his caregivers, Maria Rock, Rosie Cortes, Andrea Baker, Barb Pope, and Shelly Ore; his lifelong high school friend and fellow Marine, Don Dozer; Shriver’s Hospice; and the Department of Veterans Affairs for their care, support, and compassion.
Memorial visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026. Anchor Lodge F&AM will conduct Masonic services at 1:00 p.m., Fraternal Order of Police Zane Lodge #5 will hold services following Masonic services, followed immediately by a Celebration of Life service officiated by Pastor Darren Tolbert. Military honors will be conferred by the United States Marine Corps Color Guard.
The Farus Funeral Home of Duncan Falls is honored to care for the Drake family.
www.farusfh.com