Our beloved wife and mother, Michele Louise Ann (Simpson) Drake, 55, passed away July 9, 2016, at her home in Montesano, after an eight-year courageous battle with breast cancer, surrounded by her family. She was born on Nov. 26, 1960, in Astoria, Ore., to George Simpson and Jessie (Brandt) Simpson. She grew up in Svenson, Ore., and at a young age she showed horses and road English style and received many Grand Champion and First place finishes. She met her future husband Warren Jr. in February of 1979, while visiting her uncle Pastor John “JB” Brandt, of Aberdeen. She was a cheerleader and graduated from Knappa High School in 1979, and then moved to Aberdeen to live with her uncle and attended Grays Harbor College and to be closer to the lover of her life. Michele and Warren Jr. were married May 14, 1982, in Astoria, Ore., and celebrated their 34th wedding anniversary in May 2016. She worked for Grays Harbor Title Company until her first son was born and then stayed home to raise a family. Michele’s life and greatest joys revolved around taking care of her family which was very important to her. She was very proud of each of her three children which she loved dearly. She was very artistic, enjoyed gardening and over the years has rescued many dogs and cats.
Michele is survived by her husband Warren Jr. of Montesano, her three children Ty, Shamus and Alexa; her father George Simpson of Svenson, Ore.; her brothers and sister, Michael (Carla), Daniel, Nancy and Mark (Heather) and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her mother Jessie (Brandt) Simpson and her uncle Pastor John “JB” Brandt.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, Sept. 9, 2016, at 1 p.m. at St. John’s Catholic Church in Montesano, Wash., with a reception to follow at the parish hall. A private graveside service will be held at the Brandt family plot at Greenwood Cemetery in Astoria, Ore. at a later date. Arrangements are by Harrison Family Mortuary.
In lieu of flowers please send a donation to Motley Zoo Animal Rescue, www.motleyzoo.org. A cause dear to Michele’s heart.
Arrangements are entrusted to Harrison Family Mortuary of Aberdeen.
