Douglas L. Drake

Douglas L. Drake of Woburn passed away on Saturday, May 31, 2014 at E.N. Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital in Bedford. He was 78 years of age.

Born in Orange, New Jersey, Douglas grew up in Boonton, New Jersey. He was the loving son of the late Martha and Fredrick H. Drake, who during the 1930's developed radio technology with Aircraft Radio Corporation that became the standard for combat aircraft radio. Under the urgency of F.D.R.'s 50,000 plane air force, the Air Corps relied heavily on Dr. Drake's pioneering designs which became the SCR-2744-N (used in the Navy). Aircraft communication in the v.h.f. bands had only been used experimentally until this technology was developed. Production at Aircraft Radio Corporation for civilian use continued at Aircraft Radio Corporation until 1960 when v.h.f. 360 channel crystal controlled equipment became virtually mandatory for U.S all-weather civilian flying.

Doug had a passionate love and comprehensive knowledge for music of all kinds, especially country and bluegrass. He spent much of his life sharing his love of music and film with anyone willing to listen, and accept from his extremely giving nature. He was a devoted Red Sox fan.

Douglas was a warm and caring son, brother, uncle and friend. He will be missed by all who knew him. Douglas was a Veteran of the United States Army.

He was the devoted brother of Barbara Weinz and the late Priscilla Drake. He was the loving uncle of Lydia Smith and Nancy Howell.

Family and friends are cordially invited to gather and share remembrances with the Family on Thursday, June 5, 2014 from 5:30–7:30 pm in the Doherty – Barile Family Funeral Home, 11 Linden St. READING. Parking attendants will be available.

Please honor Douglas by making donations in his memory E.N. Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, 200 Springs Rd., Bedford MA 01730.