We created a GatheringUs memorial to celebrate the life of Peter Darke, of Hexton, New South Wales.
OBITUARY
Peter received his schooling at Queen Mary High School Gainsborough, UK, and then at the University of London. Peter taught science to many generations of schoolchildren in both England and Australia. He served as a lieutenant (later promoted to major) in World War 2, arriving in France in the Normandy Landings and fighting all the way to Germany. In retirement he took up prison visiting, and helped and mentored many inmates. A... see more
Peter received his schooling at Queen Mary High School Gainsborough, UK, and then at the University of London. Peter taught science to many generations of schoolchildren in both England and Australia. He served as a lieutenant (later promoted to major) in World War 2, arriving in France in the Normandy Landings and fighting all the way to Germany. In retirement he took up prison visiting, and helped and mentored many inmates. A founding member of Hexton's bridge club, he is survived by his son (also named Peter) and wife Mary. Hexton will be a poorer place for his loss.
My cousin Peter Drake will be keenly missed by his family and all his students. Chemistry and science teachers are a rare breed and Peter certainly lived up to the reputation they have. At Queen Elizabeth High School, many years ago, he gained a... moreMy cousin Peter Drake will be keenly missed by his family and all his students. Chemistry and science teachers are a rare breed and Peter certainly lived up to the reputation they have. At Queen Elizabeth High School, many years ago, he gained a reputation as an excellent student. I imagine the people of Hexham will mourn his passing as much as his family less
Uncle Peter Drake was a man of great integrity. His love of life was rivalled by none. As a teacher of chemistry and science he excelled. I never got to visit him in Hexham but I wish I had. May he rest in peace
Peter-Drake - teacher, Hexham stalwart, soldier, musician. What a man. I still treasure a newspaper clipping about the time that Peter met Her Majesty (Queen Elizabeth). They were both pictured giggling away ... I wonder what about? God bless, Peter... morePeter-Drake - teacher, Hexham stalwart, soldier, musician. What a man. I still treasure a newspaper clipping about the time that Peter met Her Majesty (Queen Elizabeth). They were both pictured giggling away ... I wonder what about? God bless, Peter Drake. A life well lived. less
"Uncle Binky" (Peter Drake) was one of the last of a special breed. He was officially a science-teacher and chemistry-teacher, but he was really a source of all kinds of knowledge. Just a "teacher" of everything, really. What a shame... more"Uncle Binky" (Peter Drake) was one of the last of a special breed. He was officially a science-teacher and chemistry-teacher, but he was really a source of all kinds of knowledge. Just a "teacher" of everything, really. What a shame he couldn't have held out a little longer - he would have enjoyed the 100th birthday telegram from Her Majesty (Queen Elizabeth)! Hexham will be a quieter place without him. I Adam Drake, Northumberland, UK. less
Peter Drake taught me science in lower school and chemistry when I was older. He was inspiring if rather unorthodox. He would make us all smile broadly as he did the register because it took negativity and banned from the classroom. He was right.
Adam Drake
You are right Erica. Peter Drake had the outlook that made learning fun. All those from Queen Elizabeth High School will attest to that. Chemistry and Science never seemed so much fun. Hexham will struggle to replace him
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