Linda R. Droke, age 82, of Knoxville, Illinois died at 10:06 P.M. on Tuesday, April 12, 2022, at the Richard L. Owens Hospice Home, Peoria, Illinois.
She was born on November 18, 1939, in Knoxville, Illinois the daughter of Edward and Reva Edith (Malone) Smith. She attended and graduated from Galesburg High School, received a Bachelor’s of Science, double majoring in Political Science and Native American Studies, and then received her Masters of Education from the University of Illinois. She married Merle I. Droke on April 30, 1960, in Galesburg, Illinois. He preceded her in death on October 3, 1997.
She is survived by one daughter, Elizabeth “Liz” A. Droke of Aurora, South Dakota, and one son, Clyde A. Droke of Knoxville, Illinois. She is preceded by her parents, husband, and one sister, Reva Krejci.
She was an avid reader of mysteries and worked logic puzzles and games to keep her mind sharp. She taught herself to use the computer and I-pad. She and her husband loved to travel and she learned to drive in her late 30s. She had a deep love for her family and friends.
Graveside services will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, April 19, 2022, at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens in Galesburg, Illinois with Rev. Dan Lybarger officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Richard L. Owens Hospice Home or to the family. Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes & Crematory have been entrusted with her arrangements. Online condolences and/or expressions of sympathy may be sent through www.hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com
