Franklin Leroy Rake, aged 85, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 31, 2025, at Tranquility Hospice in Marietta, Georgia. He was born on June 23, 1939, in Danville, Pennsylvania, to Franklin and Elizabeth Powlus Rake.

Franklin was preceded in death by his parents, siblings: Charlie, William and Wayne of Danville, Pennsylvania, and his loving wife Clora May Rake whom he married on Feb. 27, 1959. He is survived by his three children, Richard L. Rake and wife Jill of Poulsbo, Washington, Waymon C. Rake and wife Candy of Ellijay, Georgia, and Wanda L. (Rake) Holloway and husband Lester (Boo) of Lynden, Washington; grandchildren, Andrea, Richard, Jason, Spencer, Heather, Nathan, Zachary, Ryan; great-grandchildren Shay and Alexi; numerous nieces and nephews; and his siblings Diane Harner and Deborah Bausch.

Upon graduation from Danville High School, DHS Class of 1957, Franklin joined the United States Navy in 1957 and specialized in the Polaris Missile Guidance system as a submariner. His character was exhibited as he rescued a person from drowning, who fell in the water and could not swim, while on duty and stationed in Scotland. After leaving the Navy in 1962, Franklin joined the Vitro Corporation with whom he enjoyed a prosperous career until his retirement in 2000. He enjoyed extensive travel through Europe, Asia and the United States where he developed an interest in European Gypsy Wagons. He then proceeded to recreate them in meticulously crafted scale models which would often take years to complete. His attention to craftsmanship and fine details led him to win Best in Show at a modeling competition in Great Britain.

Frank had many other interests in life. He restored several classic cars including a 1966 Ford Thunderbird and a 1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk which he proudly drove to car rallies and shows. Franklin particularly loved to listen to accordion music, especially polkas and often enjoyed them with a glass of wine or a dram of single malt scotch whiskey. He enjoyed gardening and was especially fond of roses, colorful flowers and citrus trees.

Franklin was a generous man to his family and friends.He was always willing to go above and beyond to help them out when in need. His boisterous personality was infectious, and he could spin a good tale. He loved cooking, history, playing golf, and card games. Frank had a very happy and comfortable life which he enjoyed to the fullest.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Tranquility Hospice for the compassionate care given and making his final weeks comfortable and peaceful.