Obituary of Ralph H. Drake, Jr.

Colonie - Ralph H. Drake, Jr., 72, of Aldershoot Rd. died Sunday, September 16, 2018.  Born in Albany, Ralph had lived in Colonie all of his life.  He was a graduate of CBA, attended Siena College and then Russell Sage where he received a degree in Accounting.  He was a veteran of the United States Army, serving as a Combat Engineer and was a member of the Disabled American Veterans and the American Legion.  Ralph was a member of the Society of New York State Tax Examiners, the Colonie Elks and a former member of the Northeast Subcontractor’s Association.  Also he was a member of the Laborer’s Local #190 and Operating Engineers Local #2017.

Ralph was an Owner/Player of the Albany Metro Maulers semi pro football team when the team was a member of the Empire Football League.  He was a proud member of the CBA Fathers Association for many years.  With the help of his good friend, Paul Vellano, they built the stadium at no cost to the school.  Ralph touched many people in his lifetime and helped many, many more.

Survivors include his wife, Linda Bucciero Drake; children, Ralph H. Drake, III (Lisa) of Loudonville, William J. Drake and Elizabeth Drake (Brian Purcell) of Guilderland; granddaughter, Sophia Drake; sister, Carol Goodwin; stepchildren, Andrea Retell (Kenneth, III) of Halfmoon and Nicholas Costantino of Charlotte, NC; step-grandchildren, Kali Retell and Hunter Retell; and niece, Teresa Creamer (William).

Funeral 9:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 19, 2018 from the Reilly & Son Funeral Home, Colonie and at 10:00 a.m. at St. Pius X Church, Crumite Rd., Loudonville.  Burial will be in Our Lady of Angels Cemetery in Colonie.  Calling hours will be Tuesday from 4 - 7 p.m. in the funeral home.  For those who wish, memorial contributions to the charity of one’s choice would be appreciated.