Walter Malarkey Drake

Walter M. Drake age 78 passed away at the West Palm Beach VA Hospital on Thursday, April 15, 2021. He was born in the Bronx, NY on Oct 21, 1942 to Elizabeth (Noonan) and Walter J. Drake. Graduated from St. Helenas Business H.S. and entered the U.S. Army (82nd Airborne Division) at age 17. He was wounded in Laos in 1961 while serving as a Cryptographer under the “Howze Board”. His assignment was coding pilot evaluations of UH-1 Huey helicopters for future use in warfare. Honorably discharged in 1963. Attended L.I. University (CW Post College) graduating ’68 with a BS degree in Accounting, he received his NY CPA license in ’73. Employed by “Big 8” accounting firm Arthur Andersen for 10 years and was then hired by United Technologies (Pratt & Whitney / Norden) of Hartford, CT. In 1982 he was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis which limited his mobility to a scooter and wheelchair. Walter moved from Shelton, CT to Jupiter, FL in 2003. However, MS didn’t stop his zest for life. Walter could be found cruising the neighborhood in his electric wheelchair and turning up in a neighbor’s driveway for an impromptu conversation at any time. He enjoyed going to many of the local breakfast places, watching the boats at Jupiter Inlet, asking random people if they were from NY and supervising any family project. He was a member of the NYSCPA’s, AICPA, Lifetime member of 82nd Airborne Division (paratroopers), American Legion Post #271, Tequesta, FL, Paralyzed Vet Association, Disabled American Vets, USOPF. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years Barbara and his caring son Christopher, as well as numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved very much. Also special was his friendship of 60 years to fellow 82nd vets Jim Ellis, Eusebio Madrigal, Jack Stinton, Dick Totino and his childhood friends from the Bronx whom all supported Walter’s health to the end. He was preceded in death by his twin sister Maureen. In lieu of flowers a donation may be sent to the Paralyzed Veterans Association (www.PVA.org). A Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 2 at Taylor & Modeen, Jupiter, FL from 12-3:00pm. Burial on Monday, May 3 at 2:00pm at the South Florida National Cemetery, 6501 S State Road 7, Lake Worth, FL 33449

Walter Malarkey Drake

October 21, 1942 - April 15, 2021