Donald Loren Dake, 79, of Longwood, FL, passed away on the evening of June 12, 2021, with his wife and children at his side. Don was born on September 23, 1941 in Portland, Michigan to parents Gordon and Eunice Dake. Don moved with his family to Mt. Dora, FL at the age of five where he spent the remainder of his childhood. While growing up in Mt. Dora, Don learned various aspects of construction from his father, was active in many sports, boating, and the Mt. Dora United Methodist Church. Don graduated from Mt. Dora High School before attending Florida State University, where he was a member of the football team and the Theta Chi Fraternity. Upon joining the US Air Force in 1963, Don was stationed in Athens, Greece, an experience he often reminisced about. In 1976, Don married his wife Elaine and in 1980, they settled in Longwood where they raised two cherished children together, Kristopher and Amara. While raising their children, Don routinely volunteered as a coach in football & soccer, a leader in scouts, and various other events supporting his children's activities. He enjoyed watching almost any sport and was a lifelong passionate FSU fan. Don spent most of his career in transportation & logistics, with the final 17 years in the wholesale lumber business with his friends & colleagues at Heritage Forest Products. Don was not afraid of hard work, a trait that he has passed along to his children and grandchildren. In retirement, Don spent much of his time caring for and watching his four grandchildren grow up. In addition to spending time with family, he very much enjoyed yard work and house projects wherein he would often help family and neighbors. Don never met a stranger – he was a friend to all. Don is predeceased by his parents Gordon and Eunice Dake of Mt. Dora, FL. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Elaine; children Kristopher (Katie) Dake and Amara (Zacch) Paul; and four grandchildren Kason Dake, Kennedy Dake, Adelyne Paul, and Ansleigh Paul. Further, he is survived by brothers Gerald (Katy) Dake and James Dake; sister Marlene Foran; and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 26 at 4pm at Sanlando United Methodist Church, Longwood, FL.