Irene Marie Drake, 70, passed away Friday, March 26, 2010, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center. Irene was born Oct. 2, 1939, in Dunseith, N.D., to Gunvald and Ida Nelson. Soon after, the family moved to the Flathead Valley, where they remained. Irene met Edwin Drake and they were married Nov. 7, 1955, at The Hitching Post in Coeur d Alene, Idaho. Ned and Irene lived in Somers, where they had two children. She loved to cook, and she professionally cooked for the Immanuel Lutheran Home and Kalispell Regional Medical Center, from which she retired. At home, if four people were invited to dinner, she would make enough for 10. Irene loved her flower garden, sewing and hosting family gatherings. She was especially fond of camping and taking trips with her four grandchildren. Irene was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Alice Wittlake. She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Edwin Drake; children, Denise O Lear and husband Mike of Missoula; Larry Drake and wife Fely of Pasco, Wash.; brothers Norman Nelson and wife Marilyn, and Bruce Nelson and wife Nita; sister Betty Sommers; grandchildren Sarah, Sharri, Lisa and Mindy; and many nieces and nephews. Family and friends are invited to bring photos, memories and a favorite dish or dessert to the South Kalispell Fire Department from noon to 3 p.m. today, March 29. Please visit the Web site www.buffalohillfh.com, where there is a free site for the family, and friends can post condolences. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.