Drake E. Omstead

Drake E. Omstead, born October 25, 1931 in Hackensack, NJ, passed away January 18th 2013, in Kosciusko Community Hospital in Warsaw, IN. He boarded the marriage train with childhood sweetheart Janis Tullis of Andrews, IN on May 29, 1953, and conducted sixty years of a beautiful marriage. He was preceded in death by his parents, Trevalyn and Katherine Omstead, brother Harvey Omstead and son, David Omstead. He is survived by children, Claudia Archer (Warsaw, IN), Robert (Alaska), Carl (California), and John Omstead (Mokena, IL), and grandson, Trevor Omstead (Naperville, IL). As a young man, Drake achieved the rank of Eagle Scout and roamed Philmont scout camp in New Mexico. He attended Andrews High School, class of 1949. He received his bachelors’ degree in music from Ball State, graduating in 1953. Drake went on to receive his masters’ degree from Western Michigan University. Drake served his country honorably for a term of service in the Air Force, attaining the rank of Captain A lover of music and the education of young people, he spent more than 20 years as a band director in northern Indiana and southern Michigan schools. Later he embarked on several entrepreneurial ventures, most recently an owner of Team CKD Transport, LLC. He enjoyed a lifetime fascination and passionate interest with model railroading. In fact, his first words as an infant were “Choo-choo”! He is known throughout the nation as an aficionado of operating sessions and is a published author of countless railroad articles in hobby publications. Calling hours are scheduled for Tuesday January 22, 2013 from 1:00 to 3:00 PM at Celebrations United Methodist Church Winona Lake, IN. A Memorial Service will follow at 3:00 PM. Pastors Holly White and Cindy Gackenheimer will officiate. A private interment service will be held. The family kindly requests memorial contributions be made to: Our Father’s House401 Argonne RoadWarsaw, IN 46580