Drake Randall Taylor - Online Memorial Website

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Drake Taylor
Born in Illinois
18 years
143849
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     Drake Randall Taylor, 18, of Dunlap, IL passed away at 1:10 p.m. on Wednesday, November 28, 2012, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria, IL.
     Visitation will be from 3 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, December 2, 2012 at Northminster Presbyterian Church, 10720 N. Knoxville Ave., Peoria, IL 61615. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. on Monday, December 3, 2012, also at the church.
     Drake was born in Peoria on June 30, 1994, the son of Randy and Beverly (Dempsey) Taylor. They survive. He is also survived by his loving grandparents, Robert and Mary Ann Taylor of Pekin, IL and Myron and Phyllis Dempsey of Peoria, IL, six aunts, six uncles and five cousins.
     Drake was a junior at Dunlap High School and a member of Northminster Presbyterian Church. He was the creator and inspiration behind Little D Designs a unique line of handcrafted beaded jewelry and keepsakes. He was also an aspiring artist, whose works were sold at Exhibit A Gallery in Peoria and retail shows throughout the Midwest.
     Drake lived life with a passion and was involved in many activities including Dunlap Eagles Special Olympics, Best Buddies of Dunlap High School, Peoria County 4-H, Central IL Riding Therapy (CIRT) and Little People of America (LPA). His recent highlights include his “office job” at Dunlap High School and being “the voice of PODS” for Huntin’ Is Good.com. Drake has also been an honorary guest hunter on numerous TV hunting shows.
     Drake lost his silent battle with Moya Moya, a complication associated with his MOPD type 2 dwarfism. Drake’s wish was always to help the “kids” and his family is requesting memorial contributions be used to further research to help other children struggling with the same condition. Memorial contributions may be made in Drake’s memory to the Potentials Foundation – A Cause for Chloe.  Additional information can be found at www.potentialsfoundation.org
     Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Clary Funeral Home, 3004 West Lake Avenue, in Peoria, IL.
     Drake is now with his Lord and Savior.

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Latest Memories
Kathy, Bill, & Skye Jowett So very sad. April 8, 2013
We are so saddened of learning of Drake's passing.  My family had the pleasure of meeting Drake at last year's Deer & Turkey Expo in Madison, WI.  We attended this year, looking forward to again seeing Drake.  As we stopped at the booth and noticed Drake missing, our eyes locked on the legacy paper.  Tears came instantly.  We have followed his journey and have enjoyed watching him on various hunting shows.  We speak of Drake often and what an inspiration he is.  We will always remember his larger than life smile.  May Drake's light continue to shine through you.
Ofc Joe Pilarski Police Officer February 6, 2013
It hit me hard when I learn of the passing of Drake.  He was an amazing young man and God is blessed to have him at his side.  I met drake a few years back at the Special Olympics.  Through numerous conversations with this young man I discovered that no one I knew had more of a heart than he did.  Drake went through so much over the past few years.  I dont know anyone else strong enough who could have gone through what he did.  I konw this post is very late, but I just want Mr and Mrs Taylor to know that Drake touched the lives of so many, including us in law enfrocement.  It is my honor to spread the word of Special Olympics in his name during the Polar Plunge.  We all miss you Drake.  God be with you and with your family!
Norm and Ruth Hopp Praying for you December 6, 2012
We're happy we could spend time with you , your family and friends during the last couople of days.  We continue to pray for all of you and we know that God is with you and will  be at your side every minute of the day.  Drake was very special to us and we're happy we knew and loved him.  We will miss him as well as many others. "
To know Drake was to love him"
 

Latest Condolences
Pam Rice Touched by an Angel December 7, 2012
I remember Drake from his visits to the Pizza Factory years ago which my husband and I owned. I have thought of him so often over the last 5 years as he touched my heart with his infectious smile.  I am here visiting this week with my family and just happened to see the announcement of his passing.  My sincerest condolences to his family. Thank you for bringing him in for pizza.  Though our acquaintance was brief, I have never forgotten this special young man.  
Hospice Compasssus Staff Our Condolences December 4, 2012
The entire staff of Hospice Compassus are thinking about you and your family during this difficult time.   Our thoughts and prayers are with you. 
Sharon, Max, & Maygan Mocilan Praying for you... December 4, 2012
We are very sorry for your loss.  Drake will truly be missed.  He touched so many people's lives.  Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Susan Smith Thinking of you December 3, 2012
Bev,
 I fondly remember Drake as an energetic six year old with a smile that stole the show.  I wasn't surprised to read of his accomplishments and talents, a  truly inspirational story.  Keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Meg Williams Our thoughts and prayers December 3, 2012
Randy and family, please know how sorry we are from the Peoria Medical Society office and that you are all in our thoughts and prayers. May you find comfort in knowing that Drake had such an encouraging and and positive environment and was obviously loved beyond measure by his family and friends. The world is a better place for Drake's joy, enthusiasm and inspiration to us all.
Meg Williams and the Peoria Medical Society staff
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