Iowa Governor Terry Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds, Monday, issued statements after learning of the passing of 81-year old Iowa State Representative Jack Drake. Gov. Branstad said “Jack Drake was one of the first volunteers to help organize my campaign for Lt. Governor in 1978. Representative Drake conscientiously served the citizens of southwestern Iowa for many years in the legislature. He was a true gentleman and will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with the Drake family during this difficult time.”

Reynolds said she “Had the pleasure of working very closely with Jack in many capacities on issues important to rural Iowa. You would be hard-pressed to find a better advocate for his constituents in the Iowa Legislature. My thoughts and prayers are with Shirley and the entire Drake family during this time.”

U.S. Senator Joni Ernst a Republican from Red Oak, said “Jack was a phenomenal voice for our agricultural community and our great state. I was honored to serve with Jack in the state legislature and always valued his hard work and in-depth knowledge on the issues most important to Iowans. Jack was a good friend and he will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Shirley and their family during this difficult time.”

Drake, who died from natural causes Sunday, represented House District 21, which includes parts of Pottawattamie and Cass counties and all of Adams and Union county. Governor Branstad will set a date for a special election for House District 21 at a later date.

Funeral services for Jack Drake will be held 10:30-a.m. Thursday (Oct. 15th) at the Griswold United Methodist Church, where visitation with his family is from 4:30-until 7:30-p.m., Wednesday.