Marilyn was born January 16, 1923 in Stuart, Iowa to Meryl & Lula Herriott. Being an only child, her wish was to marry a man from a large family. That dream was realized on April 4, 1947 when she married the love of her life, Glenn A. Drake.

They farmed in rural Dallas and Guthrie counties and had three children of their own. They moved their family to rural Hartford in 1956 and stayed there until 1967 when they moved to rural Adel. After their children left home to build lives of their own, Marilyn embarked on a career in real estate realizing much success.

She and Glenn enjoyed retirement in rural Adel observing the abundant wildlife in their area. In mid 2005 she and Glenn moved to Adel Acres Care Center. She enjoyed being known to staff as Spice since God had thrown in an extra portion of spice along with added sugar when He created her.

Marilyn is survived by her loving husband, Glenn; and their three children, Donald G. Drake (Helen) of rural Ames, Alan D. Drake of rural Adel and Susan L. McAtee of rural Earlham; five grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Marilyn was a life long member of the United Methodist Church most recently in Waukee and went home to abide with Our Heavenly Father December 9, 2005. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, December 14, 2005 at Waukee United Methodist Church, 650 Ashworth Drive, Waukee, Iowa with visitation, Tuesday, 5 to 8 p.m. at the church. Private burial will be held at a later date in the Roberts Cemetery, south of Dexter, Iowa. Memorial donations in her name may be made to Waukee United Methodist Church.