Stephen Paul Drake 59 was born November 6, 1951 in Urbana, Illinois to his parents Richard K. Drake, Urbana, and Marylou Gillis, Farmer City, who survive. Steve died suddenly while traveling Tuesday, May 3, 2011.

Steve is survived by his wife of 33 years Patricia Reilly Drake. He is also survived by his sister Stephanie Drake, Champaign, and brothers Stuart (Diana) Drake, Farmer City Illinois and Stanley (Colleen) Drake, Sunrise Missouri.

Steve Drake was an Executive Vice President and Community Leader of Heartland Bank and Trust Company. He was a Director of Heartland Bank and Trust Company in Champaign-Urbana. He also served as a Director for both the State Bank of Lincoln, Lincoln Illinois, and the Farmer City State Bank, Farmer City Illinois. Steve was a community banker and a mentor to many during his entire career.

Steve graduated from Farmer City High School and received his Bachelors Degree from Illinois State University. He also received his Graduate Degree in Banking from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. In addition, he was a Certified Financial Planner.

Steve served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged.

He was a longtime member of the Masonic Lodge, Champaign-Urbana Chamber of Commerce, Pillar Member of the United Way, and a supporter of the March of Dimes, American Cancer Society and the University of Illinois. As an example of Steve's numerous anonymous gifts to others, he donated his organs.

Steve brought a passion to life that he shared with others. He enjoyed activities such as fishing, boating, and enjoyed the company of friends and family.

Visitation will be at the Renner-Wikoff Chapel, 1900 Philo Road, Urbana IL on Monday, May 9 from 4-7 PM. A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday May 10, at 10:00 AM at St. Matthew's Catholic Church, 1303 Lincolnshire Drive, Champaign IL. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery, Farmer City IL.

He is survived by friends, family, and business associates throughout Central Illinois, and will be remembered in the hearts and souls of many.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, March of Dimes, or the American Diabetes Association.