Marlys Joan Drake, 88

Marlys Joan Drake 88, passed away Sunday August 27,2023 at Sibley Specialty Care. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday September 15 at the Hampton Cemetery with Pastor Dennis Burns officiating. Funeral arrangements are under the guidance of the Sietsema-Atkinson Funeral Home in Hampton.

Joan was born April 21, 1935, to Edgar and Maxine (Orr) Varrelman. She graduated from Geneva High School. She was united in marriage to Bill Drake July 2, 1955. They lived in Fayette most of their married life.  Bill taught at Upper Iowa and in 1969 they purchased the Maple Motel.  After Bill passed in 1994, Joan sold the motel and built a new home.  This home was lost in the flood and she moved to Clarksville.

Joan's hobbies included cross stitch, bird watching, and flowers especially roses.  She also enjoyed going to her kids and grandkids sporting events.

Survivors include her daughter Jolene (Doug) Eddy of Sibley, IA, Grandchildren Parker (Stacy) Drake and their children Oliver and Zoey, Hunter (Maddie) Drake and their children Eden and Anniston. Siblings Joyce (Jim) Miller, Butch (Karen) Varrelman, Dennis (Marie) Varrelman as well as nieces and nephews.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, husband Bill, son Scott and infant daughter Carlene.