Mary "Nicki" Drake

Mary (Nicki) Drake, 96, of Naples, FL passed away peacefully on Friday, July 11, 2025. She is survived by her loving husband of 72 years, Frederic Drake, and their three daughters Nannette (Rudolf) Oldenbourg of Falmouth, MA., Denise (John) Glaser of Acton, MA and Cheryl Drake (Kevin Siegel) of San Francisco. Nicki was the cherished grandmother of Marie Tucker, Helena Oldenbourg, Julia Glaser, Jessica Glaser, Theresa Mahoney, Ruby Drake and Chiara Drake. She had six great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her parents Gilbert and Laura (Ausloos) Niquette, and her siblings Cyril, Paul and Eileen. She is survived by her sister Joanne Ter Horst and many nieces and nephews. Nicki grew up on a dairy farm in Eastern Wisconsin. Like most families, hers struggled during the depression. She was a natural athlete whose strength and flexibility remained impressive throughout her life. In high school she was a proud cheerleader and majorette and entertained audiences with great gymnastic feats. Her granddaughters and great granddaughters credit her for their skills in figure skating and gymnastics. And anyone who knew her in her later years admired her talents on the golf course. She, and her family, were proud of the fact that she was the first person in her family to go to college. After earning a bachelor’s in physical education, she studied for a certificate in physical therapy from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and worked at the University Hospital. She paid for her education by working as a department school clerk and waitress. She met Fred in Madison, Wisconsin, they were introduced by Fred’s roommate. Fred was struck by her spirit and remained impressed with it for the rest of their life together. Because of Fred’s international roots, and work at the company in New York, General Electric asked him to serve as an executive in several countries in Europe. This led to their family living in St. Gallen, Zurich, Paris, Madrid, Brussels, Frankfurt, London and Moscow. Nicki was a master at managing different languages and cultures, seamlessly organizing travel and moves, and hosting social events, including elaborate dinner parties. She ensured that her children thrived in this remarkable opportunity to experience several countries. Her daughters describe her as loving, hardworking, skillful, down-to-earth and caring. They remember her willingness to take on challenging projects, such as making beautiful clothes for them, doing upholstery, and taking cooking classes at Le Cordon Bleu. Her hard work was balanced with playfulness, such as when she taught them to sing “Mairzy Doats” and other memories. She and Fred returned to the States in 1990 and settled into homes in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, Ludlow, Vermont and Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire. In 2018, they moved to Bentley Village, Naples, FL. Her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were frequent visitors to their homes. Nicki led a remarkable and full life. She has touched the lives of many and will be long remembered. In lieu of flowers the family suggests supporting your favorite charity. To sign her guest register or to leave an online condolence please visit www.ShikanyFuneralHome.com. Arrangements are being handled by Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home Family Owned and operated Since 1978.

Mary "Nicki" Drake

January 13, 1929 - July 11, 2025