Michael Jacob Drueppel

With broken hearts, we announce the passing of Michael Jacob "Jake" Drueppel, age 33, who left this world far too soon on June 12, 2026.

Jake was a devoted father, beloved son, brother, grandson, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend. He was a hardworking man whose strength was evident not only in his powerful frame but in the way he approached life. Jake loved fiercely and was deeply devoted to his family and friends, always showing up for those he cared about.

Known for his determination, resilience, and larger-than-life personality, Jake approached everything he did with intensity and purpose. He was a man's man who loved diesel engines, loud trucks, hard work, and time spent with the people he loved. Those who knew him best knew that beneath his rugged exterior was a loyal heart and a deep love for others.

One of Jake's proudest accomplishments was the work he had done over the past ten months to build a better future for himself and for those he loved. With the support, encouragement and guidance of his Uncle BJ he had tackled addiction and embraced sobriety, dedicated himself to personal growth, and was focused on becoming the best version of himself. His future was bright, and he was working hard to create the life he envisioned for himself and his daughter.

Growing up alongside his sister, Ryleigh, on the 300 acres they called home, Jake spent countless days exploring the Illinois River, riding four-wheelers, and creating adventures that would become treasured memories. Through every stage of life, they remained one another's ride-or-die, sharing an unbreakable bond built on loyalty, laughter, and love.

Jake shared an especially close bond with his grandfather, Bill John Baker, whose love, guidance, and presence helped shape the man he became. He also dearly loved his grandmother, Sandra McIntosh, and treasured the time they spent together and the memories they shared.

Jake was fiercely protective of those he loved, especially his momma. He shared a unique connection with his mother, Angela Baker Zahn. Their relationship was built on unwavering love, loyalty, and devotion. No matter the circumstance, Jake knew his mother was in his corner, and she knew the same of him.

Jake's greatest pride and joy was his daughter, Braylee Steel Drueppel. She was the light of his life, and he loved her beyond measure. Though her father was taken far too soon, his family and friends will ensure that Braylee grows up knowing exactly who he was. Through stories, laughter, memories, and the lessons he left behind, she will always know the depth of her father's love and the strength of the man he was.

Anyone who knew Jake knew that he often took things literally, creating moments that became cherished stories. Those who loved him smile through the tears recalling that they learned to "speak Jake," choosing their words carefully because he would take them literally, holding them exactly to what they said. His straightforward nature, honesty, and unique perspective on life brought laughter to those around him and made him unforgettable.

Jake is survived by his cherished daughter, Braylee Steel Drueppel; his loving mother, Angela Baker Zahn; father, Michael Drueppel, his beloved sister, Ryleigh Barnhart; his nephew, Bentley, and niece, Zepplyn; his grandfather, Bill John Baker (Sherry); his grandmother, Sandra McIntosh (Ken); his best friend, Angus Clinton, who was more like a brother than a friend; as well as many girlfriends, friends, loved ones, and extended family members whose lives were touched by his kindness and spirit. He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Beth Baker, grandfather, Chick Drueppel and great grandparents Drs. Tim and Isabel Baker. Though his time here was far too short, the impact he made on the lives of those around him will endure for generations.

Funeral services celebrating Jake's life will be held at Exciting Southeast Baptist Church at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 18, 2026, burial to follow at Tahlequah City Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, from 5 PM until 7 PM at Hart Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Angus Clinton, Nathan Harbison, Chris Barnhart, BJ Baker, Arrow Bell, Chris Orr, and Dillon Towie.

While our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that Jake is whole, healed, and at peace in the presence of the Lord. We are grateful for every memory, every lesson, every laugh, and every moment we were blessed to share with him.

Jake's story does not end here. His love lives on in his daughter, in his family, and in the countless lives he touched. Though we grieve his absence, we hold fast to God's promise that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.

Until we meet again, we will carry Jake in our hearts, honor his memory in our lives, and thank God for the gift of the time we had with him.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever remembered