Arnold Drake

Arnold Drake passed away July 2, 2007. He is survived by his wife Lois, son Charley, grandson Nick, daughter Neva, and stepdaughters Pam Dixon and Vicky Herbkersman.

Born in Wisconsin on Jan. 22, 1916 Arnold’s family moved to Vaugn where he attended Vaugn High School, lettering in football, basketball and baseball all four years. Arnold worked as a logger where his lifelong interest in steam engine railroading began. He worked his way from oiler to fireman to engineer.

Arnold joined the Army during World War II. He served in Europe as a railroad engineer. He met and married Evelyn Hill prior to serving. After WW II he continued his career as an engineer, moving to Newhalem where he ran engine No. 6 from Rockport to Newhalem until the road was built in the early ’50s. Arnold continued to work for Seattle City Light as a hydroelectric operating engineer at Gorge Powerhouse until retirement.

Friends and relatives are invited to a celebration of his life on July 15 from 1 to 4 p.m. at 3802 James Street Road, Bellingham.