John (Jim) Drake passed away peacefully on May 13, 2026 in Fortuna. Jim was born on January 10, 1926, in Beardstown, Illinois. His goal was to reach 100 years old, and he did with a family party. He was front and center wearing a hat that said “100 never looked so good.” His life was well lived.

Jim lost his mother when he was two years old and lived much of his childhood on the family farm, where he was raised by his grandmother. Jim proudly entered the Army Air Corps, in April 1944, He trained as a gunner and was stationed in Japan.

Jim married Marjorie (Kleinschmidt) in June 1948 and they shared 56 years of marriage. After marrying they drove to California and found jobs at Pacific Lumber Company in Scotia. Jim and his Dad worked part time for State Farm Insurance, which was located next to the movie theater in Fortuna until they built their new office building on Main Street in Fortuna. Jim became a full time agent and had a 50-year career. He loved to sit down and talk to people, and his door was always open.

Jim dedicated 50+ years with the Fortuna Kiwanis Club, and was a long time member with the Fortuna Camera Club. Jim spent long hours driving our family boat, teaching family and friends how to water ski at Ruth Lake. He loved flying and became a pilot and owned part interest in an airplane.

Jim will be missed by his four children, Marcy Stipek (Dan), Marla Markegard (Gary), James Drake and Marlene Shiba (Larry). He has 9 grandchildren — Scott Barsanti (Kelly), Shawn Barsanti (Lisa), Denise Tinley (Brian), Erin DiPiero (Jeff), Evan Markegard (Nicole), Ashlee Byrd (Brendan), Alex Drake (Whitney), Bruce Shiba (Kristina) and Tyler Shiba (MacKenzie) and 16 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wife Marge, father William (Bill) Drake, mother Marcia and his stepmother Corrine.

Jim was a founding member of Hope Lutheran church in Fortuna, which he helped build in 1964. When it closed he became a member of Christ Lutheran Church.

Jim’s family would like to thank First Choice Care Home in Fortuna for their kindness during Jim’s final years, and to Hospice of Humboldt in his final days.

Jim will be remembered for his friendly personality, strong work ethic and love for his family.

A celebration of life is planned for Friday, July 3, 2026 at Christ Lutheran Church, 2132 Smith Lane in Fortuna at 2 p.m.. There was a private interment at Sunset Memorial Park in Eureka. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in Jim’s name to Christ Lutheran Church, 2132 Smith Lane, in Fortuna or a charity of your choice.