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Obituary For JoAnn Marie Drake
JoAnn Marie Drake (née Peter) was born on September 9, 1968, in Ames, Iowa. She passed away peacefully in her sleep at home on March 18, 2025, in Ankeny, Iowa, embraced by her Lord and Savior.
JoAnn is survived by her devoted husband of 35 years, Paul Drake; her cherished daughters, Kaitlin Drake, Allyssa (Ashley Ulrich) Drake, and Lindsey (Jonas) Marks; and her adored grandson, Luca Marks. She is also survived by her brother, Brian (Jen) Peter; sister, Lori (Matt) Barker; and her loving parents, Tom and Judy Peter.
On June 24, 1989, JoAnn married Paul, knowing after just three months of dating that he was her soulmate. Together, they built a beautiful life centered around their family. Jo was an incredibly devoted mother who took immense pride in her daughters’ accomplishments and was always present in their lives - whether sharing a mission trip to Uganda with Lindsey, working out with Allyssa at the gym, or running 'The Clean Team by Jo' alongside Kaitlin.
JoAnn had a compassionate heart and a deep faith that guided her throughout her life. One of her most profound spiritual experiences was her 2016 mission trip to Uganda, where she found great fulfillment in caring for children in need. She was overjoyed to become a grandmother and treasured every moment with Luca. She also loved crocheting, shopping, getting her hair and nails done, spending time with family and friends, cheering (loudly) for Iowa State, and watching her and Paul's favorite TV shows together.
A memorial service will be held at Hope Lutheran Church, 3857 E 42nd St, Des Moines, IA 50317, on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 11:00 AM, with a luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hope Lutheran Church to support a charity close to JoAnn’s heart.
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." – Joshua 1:9
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Samantha Braune sent Golden Days Basket for JoAnn Marie Drake - March 21, 2025
AmyRae N/A Nessa sent The Peace Lily for JoAnn Marie Drake - March 21, 2025
Dawn Hyler sent Living Spirit Dishgarden for JoAnn Marie Drake - March 20, 2025
Jackie Tysdal sent Loving Sentiment Bouquet for JoAnn Marie Drake - March 20, 2025
Joy E Drake sent Emerald Garden Basket for JoAnn Marie Drake - March 19, 2025
Accepting our daughter into their family as a fourth daughter, the Drake family holds a special place in our hearts. JoAnn will be missed tremendously. Love 💕 from The Ulrich Family
We knew Joann from her early youth. We trusted her and her sister Lori with our children Garth and Katy when we had date nights! We all loved her. Today she is in Heaven where there is no pain or suffering, only joy. We grieve with her family and rejoice also in the sure and certain knowledge of her salvation.
The earth has lost a true angel. She will be horribly missed by many. May God grant you peace.
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of JoAnn. She loved children so much! She shared that gift with my family by loving on my children when they were failing 3 year old Sunday School. Always patient and loving with them. I was very grateful for her gift and how she shared it. I am sure she will be missed by her family and friends. May the peace of the Lord comfort you in this time of earthly loss. Julie Kayser (DenHerder)
My thoughts and prayers are with you Paul, as well as your beautiful family. May God guide you and give you peace as you grieve.
