Drakoulis "Drake" Melas

Drakoulis "Drake" Melas
(10/18/1931 - 10/6/2023)
With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Drakoulis K. Melas, a beloved husband, father, brother, brother-in-law, cousin, and grandfather. Drakoulis, affectionately known as “Drake”, peacefully departed this world on 10/6/2023 at the age of 91. Born on December 25, 1931, though when coming to America he guessed the date of 10/18/31 as a good day to be born and this is what is reported on all his papers.   He was the eldest son of Kyriakos Melas and Maria Kouvaris in Kokkala, Mani, Greece.
Drakoulis’ journey through life was a testament to perseverance for a better life, determination to life-long learning and resilience in life’s hardships. At the tender age of 11, he left his village to embark on a path of education that would shape his future. His tenacity was a rare quality known to only a fortunate few. While Drakoulis faced hardships, his devotion to his family remained unwavering. He and his wife, Shirley, selflessly supported his children, caring for Maria's sons, Konstandinos and Drake, who would later reciprocate that love by tending to him in his final years.  His love for his home country, Greece, and anything Greek is forever etched in our souls and we will forever remember this fondly.
Drakoulis' impact extended far beyond his personal and professional accomplishments. His life, though challenging, was a symbol of unwavering commitment to family values. His memory will forever be etched in the hearts of his daughter Maria, who stood by his side in his twilight years, and his son-in-law Thomas, who cherished the time they shared. Grandchildren Drake, Konstandinos and Athina, who supported him during his later days, will carry his legacy forward. He is survived by his siblings Panayiota, Ourania (Stamatis), and Aggeliki (Nikos), and sisters-in-law Kyriaki (Petros), Koula (Stavros), and Magdalene (Fotis), along with so many nieces, nephews, cousins, and relatives in Greece and the United States.  He is one of many siblings who have passed on and it is a comfort to know they will be meeting our father once again.  He always missed his parent, siblings, and extended family, and now he will be with them. Drakoulis is survived by his devoted wife Shirley, stepson Henry (Gail), 16 grandchildren, 4 children; Kyriakos (Elisa), Penelope (Greg), and Pavlos (Angela), and a wide circle of extended family members and friends.  A solemn grave-side Veteran (ARMY) ceremony, accompanied by a Greek Orthodox liturgy, will be held on October 11, 2023 at Washington Crossing Cemetery in Newtown, PA. In lieu of flowers or cards, the family kindly requests that those who wish to pay tribute to Drakoulis’ memory reflect on the importance of family care during one's later years.  This is the best form of giving back to one’s parents and grandparents and it is an honor to care for them when they are elderly and need our help the most.  The sacrifice is great, but the ability to give back to one’s family members is paramount.  In this grief, we find solace in Drakoulis Melas' enduring commitment  to a humble existence and a legacy of quiet fortitude.  His spirit will forever live on in the hearts and minds of those fortunate enough to have known him. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming love and support received during this challenging time.  Dementia is a heart-wrenching debilitating process to watch a family member go through.  May Drakoulis' soul find eternal peace, and may his memory continue illuminating our lives.
"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away."
"Ὁ βίος βραχύς, ἡ δὲ τέχνη μακρά."

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