In loving memory of
Donald Dake

• September 23, 1941
• -
• June 12, 2021

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Donald Loren Dake, 79, of Longwood, FL, passed away on the evening of June 12, 2021, with his wife and
children at his side. Don was born on September 23, 1941 in Portland, Michigan to parents Gordon and
Eunice Dake. Don moved with his family to Mt. Dora, FL at the age of five where he spent the remainder
of his childhood. While growing up in Mt. Dora, Don learned various aspects of construction from his
father, was active in many sports, boating, and the Mt. Dora United Methodist Church. Don graduated
from Mt. Dora High School before attending Florida State University, where he was a member of the
football team and the Theta Chi Fraternity. Upon joining the US Air Force in 1963, Don was stationed in
Athens, Greece, an experience he often reminisced about. In 1976, Don married his wife Elaine and in
1980, they settled in Longwood where they raised two cherished children together, Kristopher and
Amara. While raising their children, Don routinely volunteered as a coach in football & soccer, a leader
in scouts, and various other events supporting his children’s activities. He enjoyed watching almost any
sport and was a lifelong passionate FSU fan. Don spent most of his career in transportation & logistics,
with the final 17 years in the wholesale lumber business with his friends & colleagues at Heritage Forest
Products. Don was not afraid of hard work, a trait that he has passed along to his children and
grandchildren. In retirement, Don spent much of his time caring for and watching his four grandchildren
grow up. In addition to spending time with family, he very much enjoyed yard work and house projects
wherein he would often help family and neighbors. Don never met a stranger – he was a friend to all.
Don is predeceased by his parents Gordon and Eunice Dake of Mt. Dora, FL. He is survived by his wife of
44 years, Elaine; children Kristopher (Katie) Dake and Amara (Zacch) Paul; and four grandchildren Kason
Dake, Kennedy Dake, Adelyne Paul, and Ansleigh Paul. Further, he is survived by brothers Gerald (Katy)
Dake and James Dake; sister Marlene Foran; and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and
grandnephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 26 at 4pm at Sanlando United Methodist Church,
Longwood, FL.