Obituary of Valerie Drake

Valerie Drake, 58 of Meriden passed away October 29, 2022 at Mid State Hospital in Meriden. She was born December 2, 1963 in Trenton, NJ to George and Barbara (Squires) Drake. Valerie is survived by her parents, a loving and devoted son, Raymond Marquis (Jamie Dugan) of Norfolk, VA, companion, Walter Swistak of Meriden and a sister, Barbara Chambers of Sarasota, Fl. Valerie Drake was a devoted mother who committed her life to her family and to her community. As a house keeper a gardener she brought comfort and joy to the homes of countless clientele. Through her work with Bikers Against Animal Cruelty she helped raise funds and find homes for countless animals in need of foster and forever homes. With the Valhalla Mc she helped fundraise and support family's and services of fallen veterans. Valerie was a woman who could make a room feel full when there were few. She had a big personality but even a bigger heart. Her distinct laugh that couldn't be missed in the loudest of parties and her ability to make friends with everyone she came in contact with where some of the defining features of Valerie. She was someone who would give when she had little and could bring someone who was down back up. Her tough love was always genuine and she never gave up on those she cared about. Valerie had an unparalleled love for her friends, animals, and the outdoors. She was never one to miss a party. Her firecracker personality lit up every room she ever walked into. She will be with all of her friends forever and always in there hearts and minds and the impact she had in her community will be felt for far into the future. A celebration of Life for Valerie will be held on Sunday, November 6, 2022 at 2 PM in O’Brien’s Pub, 1257 Old Colony Rd., Wallingford CT 06492. All are welcome to attend.