William L. Drake

William L. Drake, 78, of Wyoming, and formerly of Battle Creek, died October 29, 2017. Bill was born November 3, 1938 in Battle Creek. He graduated high school and worked as a machinist for General Motors.

Bill, often called "Slick Willy" by his friends, enjoyed playing golf, softball, shuffleboard, horseshoes and beanbags. He also enjoyed bowling and was a great jokester. Most of all, Bill loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Bill is survived by his son, Reginald (Ida) Drake; a daughter, Jennifer (Rick) Fritz; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren and a sister, Mary Halstrom. Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon and two grandsons, Reginald Drake III and Branden Fritz.

Funeral services to celebrate Bill's life will be 1:00 p.m., Thursday, November 2, 2017 at the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, officiated by Rev. Robert G. Muirhead. Visitation will be Wednesday, November 1st from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be at Hicks Cemetery. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.