A Tribute to Richard Stemple

In Loving Memory

In January 2017, Drake lost one of its second-generation founders, Rich Stemple.

When we look at Drake today, it’s hard not to see many of his contributions to the company’s growth, from the work centers he helped to design and build, to the state-of-the-art equipment he helped specify and procure, to the design and build of the building we operate in today.

Rich saw possibilities where the rest of us saw a need.

He saw an opportunity where the rest of us saw problems.

He didn’t say, “Let somebody else do it.” He said, “I’ll take that on.”

With the hustle of the Energizer Bunny, Rich started talking and raising employee spirits. All Rich’s talk and enthusiasm gave the rest of Drake what it needed most – and that was leadership.

He, along with his brother Lee, were the quarterbacks in a drive that took us from a dream to a reality … the reality of this fine company we have enjoyed for 65 years and will continue to enjoy for years to come.

So Rich, on behalf of everyone here at Drake, we’d like to say thanks for being a man of action and not just words. You got us started, rallying many people to work together to continue Drake’s growth.

It would never have happened without you.