MADISON - Jenelle Virginia Drake, age 34, of Madison, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023. She was born on Oct. 26, 1989, in Madison, WI, the daughter of Daniel and Lori (Davies) Drake.

Jenelle grew up in Evansville, WI, where, from a very young age, it was clear that she was gifted with a wicked sense of humor. From chasing her sister around the yard with critters to outwitting others in verbal jests, she brought laughter to so many situations. After graduating Evansville High School in 2008, Jenelle moved to La Crosse where her career of caring for others began. She was employed in the home health care field and was skilled at being able to assist others through her work as a CNA. Jenelle’s ability to provide thoughtful care and comfort to those she worked with was unparalleled, and she brought unconditional grace into the homes she worked in.

Jenelle’s love for camping began in childhood and continued with the many camping trips she and her partner, Chris, took during their time together. She looked forward to traveling: going on Disney cruises with Chris and his family, the recent RV trip with her parents, attending Dan and Shay concerts, and forever attempting to get inside the Prevost bus of her dreams. Jenelle was many wonderful things, but one that she was most proud of was being a dog Mom to her pup, Lola, who had been her unconditional companion for over a decade.

Jenelle was talented in many ways, and her hobbies included reading, puzzles (even though she would complain that they took her ages to complete), and crafting. She loved a good suspense book, especially James Patterson, and would thoughtfully crochet blankets and scarves for unhoused people in her community. Jenelle was a loyal Packers fan, never missing a game, even attending a few with her parents, Chris and sister over the years. She brought her love of fishing to her nephew, Joseph, and found great joy in the time that she spent with her niece, Ginny.

Jenelle will be deeply missed by those she is survived by: her partner, Christopher Wuensch; her parents, Daniel and Lori Drake; her ‘Seestor’, Melissa (Jeffery) David; niece, Virginia; nephew, Joseph; her grandparents, Wayne and Louise Davies; and many relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Robert and Virginia Drake.

A life celebration will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 27, 2023, for immediate family and close friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice in her name and through Random Acts of Kindness.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Jenelle Virginia Drake

October 26, 1989 - November 15, 2023

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