Rudolph David Drake

Rudolph David Drake of Emporia died on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at Newman Regional Health in Emporia. He was 75.

Rudy was born on September 19, 1950, in Emporia, Kansas, the son of Urie Aristide and Reva Mable Essex Drake. He married Karen Denise Beitz at Emporia. They later divorced.

Rudy will be deeply missed by surviving family members including his sons, Shannon Rudolph Drake of Emporia, and Ryan David (Tonja) Drake of Ozawkie; grandchildren, Deanna Marie Drake, Breona Dawn Drake, Kylan O’dale Drake, Alyssa, and Leah; great-grandson, Kenny, Jr.; brothers, Billy Drake of Missouri, and Mark Drake of Emporia; sisters, Shirley Long of Ottawa, Marilyn Johnson of Minnesota, and Pamela Drake of Oklahoma; longtime companion Fareda Gallagher of Emporia, her son Bryan (Amber) Hammond of Hartford, 2 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers Berryman Drake and Paul Drake, sisters Jessie Drake, Yvonne Jean Johnson, and Donna Isabelle Drake.

Rudy was always a hard worker, working multiple jobs to help raise his family to have the best life that they could. Rudy would say, “It’s time to move around,” which meant that hard work pays off and good things will happen for you. Rudy worked for Modine Manufacturing for 30 plus years. Before, during, and after retirement he also ran Drake Scrap Metal here in Emporia.

Rudy was often referred to as “Pops” by many which is a direct depiction of his overall loving nature. Rudy would go out of his way to ensure family and friends had what they needed even if it was just a friendly and supportive face to talk to. Rudy enjoyed fishing for catfish, Jazz music, spending time with family, and entertaining friends. Rudy looked forward to events as a chance to get dressed to the max where you would find him sporting Harold Pener’s attire, gold chains, gold rings, gold watch, the Kangol brim hat, and his infamous gold framed shades. Rudy loved his Kansas City Chiefs! Family also recalls his attention to detail and adoration for his Cadillac Seville as you could often find Rudy washing it and waxing it.

Family and friends will gather to honor and remember Rudy’s remarkable life during a Visitation from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home. Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, July 10, 2026, at the funeral home. Burial will be at Maplewood Memorial Lawn Cemetery in Emporia.