The Valley lost a dedicated first responder over the weekend as longtime Litchfield Fire Chief Joe Drake passed away after a courageous battle with brain cancer.
Joe served as Litchfield’s fire chief for over 30 years and was well-known throughout the area as an outstanding community leader, first responder and friend.
A benefit was held for Joe at the Litchfield Fire Hall on Saturday afternoon and drew a huge crowd from all over the area.
The Litchfield Township Volunteer Fire Company said in a Facebook post that Joe’s passing leaves a hole that will be tough to fill.
The Waverly-Barton Fire District said in a post that Joe was a moral compass for emergency services in the Valley area and beyond.
Funeral services have not been announced at this time.
